Abstract
We report a method for creating synthetic diatom frustules via the biomimetic silicification of polyamine-rich scaffolds assembled by direct ink writing (DIW) [G. M. Gratson, M. Xu and J. A. Lewis, Nature, 2004, 428, 386, ref. 1]. A concentrated polyamine-rich ink is robotically deposited in a complex 3D pattern that mimics the shape of naturally occurring diatom frustules, Triceratium favus Ehrenberg (triangular-shaped) and Arachnoidiscus ehrenbergii (web-shaped). Upon exposing these scaffolds to silicic acid under ambient conditions, silica formation occurs in a shape-preserving fashion. Our method yields 3D inorganic-organic hybrids structures that may find potential application as templates for photonic materials, novel membranes, or catalyst supports.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 205-209 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Soft Matter |
Volume | 2 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2006 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- Condensed Matter Physics