Patterned, hybrid, multilayer nanostructures based on multivalent supramolecular interactions

Various patterning strategies have been developed to create hybrid nanostructures of dendrimers and gold nanoparticles on cyclodextrin self-assembled monolayers (CD SAMs) based on multiple supramolecular interactions using a layer-by-layer (LBL) approach. A lack of specificity of the adsorption of the dendrimer prevented the use of LBL assembly on chemically patterned SAMs, which were prepared by microcontact printing (ACP) or nanoimprint lithography (NIL). Nanotransfer printing (nTP) and nanoimprint lithography solved that problem and resulted in patterned LBL assemblies on the CD SAMs. nTP was achieved by LBL assembly on a PDMS stamp followed by transfer onto a full CD SAM. NIL-prepared PMMA patterns provided patterned CD SAMs and functioned as a physical mask for LBL assembly. For these methods, differences in thickness of the LBL assemblies were observed when compared to LBL assembly on full CD SAMs. These differences were shown not to originate from rinsing or lift-off procedures, but probably from differences in wetting.