A method to cluster nanocrystals into uniform superparticles using a source-sink emulsion system. Problem: Superparticles present a compelling platform for customizable microscale magnets, sensors, and lasers. However, current manufacturing processes are slow, expensive, and imprecise resulting in loosely packed and polydisperse superparticles. Existing methods can create precise superparticles in solutions, but drying the superparticles severely increases their polydispersity. Other methods involving polymers are slow and non-transferable. Solution: This technology is a robust, scalable, and inexpensive process which takes just minutes to create highly precise superparticles. It uses microfluidics and natural mass transfer to produce monodisperse superparticles. This process yields low polydispersity and high quality superparticles for applications in magnetic and optical technologies. Technology: Inspired by other microfluidic approaches to create superparticles, the authors developed a source-sink method to desiccate superparticles from a solvent. First, they created droplets of a source emulsion containing toluene and nanocrystals. They then used a microfluidic device to introduce a solution of water and hydrophobic oil. Mass transfer between these two solutions naturally condenses nanocrystals into superparticles in just a few minutes. In addition, the authors found that superparticle size and morphology are easily tunable using this method. Advantages:
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A schematic of the superparticle manufacturing method involving a source-sink emulsion system. First, nanocrystals are mixed into a toluene and water emulsion. Then, a mixture of hydrophobic oil and water is introduced using microfluidics. Mass transfer between the solutions drives the formation of monodisperse nanocrystal superparticles. Intellectual Property:
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Docket #22-9871