Prolate spheroidal polystyrene nanoparticles: matrix assisted synthesis, interface properties, and scattering analysis.

Shape-anisotropic colloids are increasingly attracting attention for the fabrication of nano- and mesostructured materials. Polymer-based prolate spheroids are typically accessible through a two-step fabrication procedure comprising the synthesis of monodisperse particles of initially spherical shape and their stretching into elongated, ellipsoidal-like objects. The particle stretching is conducted within a matrix polymer, most commonly polyvinylalcohol, which allows heating beyond the glass transition temperature of the polymer particles, e.g. polystyrene. Here, we investigate various aspects of the synthesis and their consequences for the resulting colloids. Loading the stretching matrix with a high amount of polymer particles results in small particle clusters, which are separated during the mechanical stretching step. At the same time, the matrix polymer physisorbs at the particle surface which can be removed via a rigorous work-up procedure. Overall, this process allows for a precise adjustment of the aspect ratio of the prolate spheroids with a small size distribution and retained electrostatic stabilization. We analyse these particles with a range of microscopic and scattering techniques, including depolarized dynamic light scattering that gives access to the rotational diffusion coefficients.

Time-Temperature Integrating Optical Sensors Based on Gradient Colloidal Crystals.

Manipulation-free and autonomous recording of temperature states for extended periods of time is of increasing importance for food spoilage and battery safety assessment. An optical readout is preferred for low-tech visual inspection. Here, a concept for time-temperature integrators based on colloidal crystals is introduced. Two unique features in this class of advanced materials are combined: 1) the film-formation kinetics can be controlled by orders of magnitude based on mixtures of particles with distinct glass transition temperatures. 2) A gradual variation of the particle mixture along a linear gradient of the colloidal crystal enables local readout. Tailor-made latex particles of identical size but different glass transition temperatures provide a homogenous photonic stopband. The disappearance of this opalescence is directly related to the local particle ratio and the exposure to a time and temperature combination. This sensing material can be adjusted to report extended intermediate and short excessive temperature events, which makes it specifically suitable for long-term tracing and threshold applications.