KOSMIK

Nanocrystal self-assembly sheds its secrets A new approach gives a real-time look at how the complex structures form. Date: March 24, 2016 Source: Massachusetts Institute of Technology A scanning electron micrograph of a nanocrystal superlattice shows long-range ordering over large domains. Credit: Image courtesy of the Tisdale Lab The secret to a long-hidden magic trick behind the self-assembly of nanocrystal structures is starting to be revealed. The transformation of simple colloidal particles -- bits of matter suspended in solution -- into tightly packed, beautiful lace-like meshes, or superlattices, has puzzled researchers for decades. Pretty pictures in themselves, these tiny superlattices, also called quantum dots, are being used to create more vivid display screens as well as arrays of optical sensory devices. The ultimate potential of quantum dots to make any surface into a smart screen or energy source hinges, in part, on understanding ...