Like nanoparticles, block copolymers (BCPs) are a well-recognized self-assembling material system. On their own, BCPs typically lack the functional properties of inorganic nanoparticles necessary for electronic or photonic applications; they may, however, template the assembly of functional inorganic materials with nanoarchitectures mirroring self-assembled BCP morphologies. In this talk, I will highlight research in BCP self-assembly at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN) that also advances the field of inorganic nanomaterial synthesis and assembly more generally.<br/><br/>First, I will describe how block-selective infiltration of BCP thin films with metal-containing precursors from the vapor or liquid phase can template the synthesis of inorganic nanoarchitectures (AlO<sub>x</sub>, ZnO, Pt) with excellent etch resistance, wavelength-tunable antireflection, and ultraviolet optoelectronic response. Intriguingly, the self-assembly of BCP thin films is directed by the topography of underlying infiltrated BCP layer, generating 3D morphologies like nanomeshes that are not native to the bulk BCP phase diagram. Second, I will describe the development and application of a new user tool at the CFN that uses automated electrospray deposition to create thin film ternary gradient composition “libraries” on a single substrate. When combined with rapid structural characterization using synchrotron grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS), an entire ternary blend morphology diagram can be characterized in as little as a few hours. This capability can dramatically accelerate the systematic investigation of self-assembling polymer, nanoparticle, or hybrid material blends.

Block copolymer templated assembly of functional 3D inorganic nanoarchitectures

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.