Adaptive Assemblies of Soft Matter at Interfaces
Abstract
We propose an investigation of soft materials at fluid/fluid interfaces. These studies include soft Janus nanoparticles (sJNPs) where the symmetry, component volume fractions and molecular weights are varied. Quantitative studies are proposed to obtain and absolute definition of the assemblies of the sJNPs and their response to external fields, including compression and pH. We also describe studies where the geometry of the sJPNs is varied, specifically to soft Janus nanodiscs, perforated nanodiscs, and nanorings. These geometric changes will have assembly characteristics and responses that will be unique to their specific geometry. Finally, we propose and extension of studies on water/water interfaces where polycation/polyanion coascervates are used to form a soft interfacial layer between the two immiscible aqueous solutions. These coascervate assemblies will be investigated to generate soft devices for separations, sensing and energy storage, where the characteristics of the devices will be dependent on the nature of the coascervate layer. We will also investigate the generation of a layer-by-layer assembly to enhance the thickness of the membrane and, hence, the mechanical properties of the membranes. While the focus of these studies will be on the basic science underpinning the assemblies, the constructs that are proposed are envisioned to generate essentially soft devices that will provide new avenues to pursue for the development of devices in liquid environments, where hard materials fail. These constructs will be transportable systems or systems that can be generated in the field that will ultimately impact the soldier in the field.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2020
- Source ID
- W911NF2010093
Entities
People
- Thomas Paul Russell
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Massachusetts Amherst