Assembling cellular networks of colloids via emulsions of partially miscible liquids: a compositional approach

Abstract

Colloidal particles are often regarded as building blocks for creating new materials, so guiding them to form specific structures is crucial. Here we present a simple method to assemble colloids into a cellular network. It relies on compositional changes in a colloid-stabilized emulsion of partially miscible liquids, and is induced by the disappearance of the continuous phase via evaporation. The particles are hereby forced into a cellular network as the droplets are squeezed together. Re-mixing of the liquid phases eventually occurs, leaving a stable structure surrounded by a single fluid phase. We demonstrate in detail the formation of the networks and discuss some general features of this approach. Finally, we show the macroscopic volume change and ultimate stability of the structure.