Issue 13, 2018

Covalent layer-by-layer films: chemistry, design, and multidisciplinary applications

Abstract

Covalent layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly is a powerful method used to construct functional ultrathin films that enables nanoscopic structural precision, componential diversity, and flexible design. Compared with conventional LbL films built using multiple noncovalent interactions, LbL films prepared using covalent crosslinking offer the following distinctive characteristics: (i) enhanced film endurance or rigidity; (ii) improved componential diversity when uncharged species or small molecules are stably built into the films by forming covalent bonds; and (iii) increased structural diversity when covalent crosslinking is employed in componential, spacial, or temporal (labile bonds) selective manners. In this review, we document the chemical methods used to build covalent LbL films as well as the film properties and applications achievable using various film design strategies. We expect to translate the achievement in the discipline of chemistry (film-building methods) into readily available techniques for materials engineers and thus provide diverse functional material design protocols to address the energy, biomedical, and environmental challenges faced by the entire scientific community.

Graphical abstract: Covalent layer-by-layer films: chemistry, design, and multidisciplinary applications

Associated articles

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
24 Dec 2017
First published
16 May 2018

Chem. Soc. Rev., 2018,47, 5061-5098

Covalent layer-by-layer films: chemistry, design, and multidisciplinary applications

Q. An, T. Huang and F. Shi, Chem. Soc. Rev., 2018, 47, 5061 DOI: 10.1039/C7CS00406K

To request permission to reproduce material from this article, please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

If you are an author contributing to an RSC publication, you do not need to request permission provided correct acknowledgement is given.

If you are the author of this article, you do not need to request permission to reproduce figures and diagrams provided correct acknowledgement is given. If you want to reproduce the whole article in a third-party publication (excluding your thesis/dissertation for which permission is not required) please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

Read more about how to correctly acknowledge RSC content.

Social activity

Spotlight

Advertisements