Scientists Observe Nanoparticle Self-Assembly in Real-Time for First Time
Posted on April 24, 2013
Researchers have observed the self-assembly of nanoparticle chains in real-time for the first time. The research was performed at the Center for Nanoscale Materials at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory. The video shows gold nanoparticles coming together in long chains. The researchers say they exposed a liquid cell contain gold particles to an intense beam of electrons:
Argonne nanoscientist Yuzi Liu, the study's lead author, said in a release, "The potential of nanoparticles in all sorts of different applications and devices - from tiny machines to harvesters of new sources of energy - requires us to bring all of our resources to bear to look at how they function on the most basic physical levels."
A depressing theme used frequently in science fiction revolves around these tiny machines - self-assembling and self-replicating robots - leading to an apocalyptic scenario. A new They Might Be Giant's music video, "Nanobots," has nanobots taking over the world.
The scientists say self-assembly could lead to new materials that could be used to develop new, energy-relevant technologies. Argonne nanoscientist Tijana Rajh says, "When we look at self-assembly, we're looking to use nature as a springboard into man-made materials."
Here is a video of the gold nanoparticles self-assembling into long chains when bombarded with electrons. Take a look: