Abstract

The work discusses in a critical and evaluative fashion, notions of self-assembled and driven-constructed structures such as layers, solid and semi-solid thin films, nanostructures (wires, etc.) and nanoparticles. The goal of the technology is for application to medicine, flexible materials for sensor or engineering (microelectronics, optics, etc.) use and a range of patent-specific applications. The discussed platform-technology represents a starting point material that can be modified for a range of applications. This gives the new product a particular edge over current products. The components of the structure may be assembled piece-by-piece or layer-by-layer and this provides an element of flexibility (smartness) within the design. This strategy may build on to a more generalized form of chemical modification of polymer and monomer thin films or layers to suit the purpose. The reason for such modifications may relate to particular complexation and composite forming capability, such as crystal inclusion in polymer films or the physical, mechanical and chemical protection offered by encapsulation as pertinent to the delivery of drugs in consistent form. With recent advancements, the technologies discussed provide a great potential for far-reaching scientific applications in research and manufacturing.

Keywords: Layer-by-layer, encapsulation, polymer, self-assembly, thin film composite, sensor