Functional Microstructures by Self-Assembly - Molecular Self-Assembly: Advances and Applications - page 385

structure can be created by using a single-component, single-step
process. The discussion will then advance to cover a multistep
assembly process where the process itself is at a nanoscale level but
the functional product (waveguide) has microscale dimensions. This
is followed by an introduction to “true” microscale self-assembly, with
an emphasis on understanding the fundamental binding interactions
in that size domain, and demonstrating functional structures as the
end result. The review concludes by discussing a capstone case of
three-dimensional (3D) microscale assembly, which takes place
at a microscale level but necessitates component manipulation by
nanoscale techniques.
The review is based on the research performed in our group in
the areas of microscale and nanoscale self-assembly. It describes the
physical and chemical principles that can be utilized in self-assembly,
as well as shows examples of functional microelectromechanical
systems (MEMS) created by such processes. It has been written to
promote our view that the two assembly domains can greatly benefit
from one another, and it is important to understand both processes
if self-assembly is to be developed into a fabrication platform for
commercial product manufacturing.

12.2 Nanoscale Self-Assembly

The assembly of nanoscale-ordered structures is directed by both
covalent and noncovalent interactions, such as van der Waals forces,
Coulomb interactions, hydrophobic interactions, stacking, or

hydrogen bonding. Understanding these interactions in different
material systems is essential for their utilization in the precisely
directed fabrication of technologically relevant materials. Here, the
binding affinities of a genetically engineered peptide to selected
surfaces [1] are reviewed and potential applications are presented.
Subsequently, the use of preferential attachment of chemicals on
patterned substrates for monolayer self-assembly, and its application
in the formation of macroscale configurations from individual
micrometer structures are discussed [2]. An investigation of the
impact of different process parameters on the two-dimensional
(2D) self-assembly of 1-pyrylphosphonic acid into ordered, stacked
structures reveals challenges for a successful fabrication, possibly
resulting in applications of this p-type semiconductor, for example,

π−π