Abstract
Suprabiomineral materials possessing hierarchically organized superstructures are investigated by Imai and Oaki on p. 1407. Inorganic crystals, organic polymers, and functional dyes have assembled via a simple biomimetic route into a superstructure that contains six different tiers, from the macroscale to the nanoscale. The hierarchy originates from the strong interaction between crystals and polymers and the diffusion-controlled conditions. The versatile role of the polymer is found to be essential for the construction of a superstructure. This approach promises to generate novel types of functional materials with controllable structures and properties. We report a novel hierarchically organized superstructure emerging from an exquisite association of inorganic crystals, organic polymers, and dyes. The resultant K2SO4/poly(acrylic acid) composite includes five different tiers from the nanoscopic to the macroscopic. An additional new tier leading to functionality is formed by the incorporation of organic dyes that are organized in a nanospace. The emergent superstructure and properties are designed through changes in polymer concentration. The multiple roles of the polymer realize the generation of the architecture at each size scale. This model approach should be widely applicable to other systems, allowing for the preparation of innovative materials by an appropriate combination of crystals, polymers, and functional molecules.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call