Lock and key colloids

S. Sacanna (), W. T. M. Irvine, P. M. Chaikin and D. J. Pine ()
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S. Sacanna: New York University, 4 Washington Place, New York, New York 10003, USA
W. T. M. Irvine: New York University, 4 Washington Place, New York, New York 10003, USA
P. M. Chaikin: New York University, 4 Washington Place, New York, New York 10003, USA
D. J. Pine: New York University, 4 Washington Place, New York, New York 10003, USA

Nature, 2010, vol. 464, issue 7288, 575-578

Abstract: The key to self-assembly Many functional materials can be created by directing the assembly of colloidal particles into a predetermined structure. Control over particle assembly usually involves tagging them with molecules such as DNA that can recognize and bind each other. But new work shows that shape complementarity — the construction of colloids using a lock-and-key recognition mechanism — offers a simple and effective alternative control mechanism. The keys are colloidal spheres, and monodisperse colloidal particles with a spherical cavity are the locks. The two will spontaneously and reversibly bind via the depletion interaction if their sizes match. This procedure yields complex colloidal structures held together by flexible bonds, and offers a simple yet general means to program and direct colloidal self-assembly.

Date: 2010
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DOI: 10.1038/nature08906

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