Modulation of microemulsions and surface self-assembly by the incorporation of nanoparticles.

What is it about?

Properties and interactions of AOT water-in-oil microemulsion can be modulated by the incorporation of oil- and/or water-soluble nanoparticles, as suggested by conductivity, DSC, and cryo-SEM characterization. When both types of nanoparticles are incorporated, synergistic affects were observed specially related to cryo-SEM. Drop-casting of a water-in-oil upper phase over a surface and then solvent evaporation afforded filament-like networks of ordered oil- and water-soluble nanoparticles, observed by TEM and HRTEM.

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Why is it important?

Microemulsion properties can be also affected by the presence of different types of nanoparticles. A new application of water-in-oil microemulsions for self-assembly of nanoparticles in larger scale heterostructures has been demonstrated.