Conductive core-shell particles: An approach to self-assembled mesoscopic wires

Conductive core-shell particles consisting of a dielectric core and a metallic shell were prepared using layer-by-layer assembly and electroless plating. Conductivity was studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-vis spectroscopy as a function of the preparation protocol. Routines for the controlled self-assembly of these particles into continuous lines (see Figure and cover) were investigated to explore their applicability in self-assembled mesoscopic wiring.