Complex Smart Colloids
Abstract
This program will establish basic scientific principles to create new liquid matter in the form of complex smart colloids (CSCs). The control of CSC topology and simplified microfluidic schemes will enable new scalable approaches for the production of complex objects, structured optical coatings, and biosensors. The proposed comprehensive effort will create designer compositions of immiscible liquids, new generations of small molecule and macromolecular surfactants, and powerful processing methods. Fluidity ensures rapid CSC equilibration to produce thermodynamically minimized structures and, when combined with microfluidic processing, provides for precision production of complex 3D objects. Designing new intricate CSC structures requires simultaneous control of interfacial and line tensions at all 2- and 3-fluid junctions. CSC assembly methods are scalable and highly complex molecular surfactants are practical because a single monolayer can control an interface. CSCs are dynamic systems and changes in morphology are induced with optical, electrical, magnetic, chemical, or biochemical stimulation. Particles with complex 3D topologies will be generated from CSCs that are capable of behaving as novel fasteners as a result of chemical and/or magnetic potentials. CSCs can also be designed to undergo programmed disassembly for single step production of structured coatings for the manufacture of elastic/optical metamaterials, reflectors, or organic photovoltaic/transistors devices. Coatings containing CSCs constitute dynamic optical systems that can focus, diffuse, or redirect light. The extraordinary optical properties of CSCs also have great potential for the formation of new generations of ultrasensitive, selective, lightweight, low power, and inexpensive biosensors. These methods are ideally suited for the rapid detection of biomarkers and pathogenic organisms. The simplicity of the proposed biosensors with visual or smartphone detection is attractive for use in real-world environments. The basic science to be developed with this fellowship will establish a roadmap to produce new DoD capabilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 17, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141812878
Entities
People
- Timothy M. Swager
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy