Reconfigurable droplet networks

Shuyi Sun, Shuailong Li, Weixiao Feng, Jiaqiu Luo, Thomas P. Russell () and Shaowei Shi ()
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Shuyi Sun: Beijing University of Chemical Technology
Shuailong Li: Beijing University of Chemical Technology
Weixiao Feng: Beijing University of Chemical Technology
Jiaqiu Luo: Beijing University of Chemical Technology
Thomas P. Russell: University of Massachusetts
Shaowei Shi: Beijing University of Chemical Technology

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Droplet networks stabilized by lipid interfacial bilayers or colloidal particles have been extensively investigated in recent years and are of great interest for compartmentalized reactions and biological functions. However, current design strategies are disadvantaged by complex preparations and limited droplet size. Here, by using the assembly and jamming of cucurbit[8]uril surfactants at the oil-water interface, we show a novel means of preparing droplet networks that are multi-responsive, reconfigurable, and internally connected over macroscopic distances. Openings between the droplets enable the exchange of matter, affording a platform for chemical reactions and material synthesis. Our work requires only a manual compression to construct complex patterns of droplet networks, underscoring the simplicity of this strategy and the range of potential applications.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45214-1

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