Curvature-Directed Patch Formation on Gold Nanocubes by Thermally Induced Polymer Redistribution.

ABSTRACT: Patchy nanoparticles (NPs) enable directional interactions and dynamic structural transformations, yet controlling polymeric patch formation with high spatial precision remains a significant challenge. Here, a thermally driven approach is presented to forming polystyrene (PS) patches on low-curvature facets of anisotropic gold nanocubes (NCs) using a single polymer component. Heating in DMF above 90 °C triggers selective desorption of PS chains from high-curvature edges and vertices via Au─S bond dissociation, followed by migration and deposition into rounded patches on flat surfaces. The number and angular configuration of patches are governed by NP geometry and thermal energy, typically appearing at 90° intervals. Patch morphology is highly responsive to NC concentration. Lower concentra

SUBMITTER: Lee J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12667489 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature