Abstract
We propose a novel process to fabricate micropatterns of spherical particle assemblies. Hydrophilic regions of a patterned self-assembled monolayer were covered with methanol solution containing SiO2 particles and immersed in decalin to control the shape of droplets and gradually dissolve the methanol into decalin. Interfacing of methanol/decalin and shrinkage of methanol droplets were utilized to obtain meniscus force to form spherical particle assemblies; additionally, its static solution system allowed precise control of the conditions. Particles were assembled to form spherical shapes on hydrophilic regions of an SAM and consequently, micropatterns of spherical particle assemblies were successfully fabricated through self-assembly. This patterned two-solution process has the advantages of both a drying process having meniscus force and a static solution process having high controllability.
