MESOSCOPIC PATTERNS OF MOLECULAR AGGREGATES ON SOLID SUBSTRATES

A two-dimensional micron-sized honeycomb structure was formed when a c hloroform solution of an amphiphilic polymer was cast on solid surface s at high atmospheric humidity. This simple method is widely applicabl e for patterning of molecular aggregates on solid surfaces. Mesoscopic patterns are demonstrated to be formed spontaneously from a variety o f amphiphilic polyion complexes, amphiphilic covalent polymers, and or ganic-inorganic hybrid materials. Size and structure of the patterns c an be regulated by concentration, atmospheric humidity, etc. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.