Versatile self-assembled hybrid systems with exotic structures and unique functions

In this review article, we describe recent progress about exotic self-assembled systems with various dimensions including biomolecules, supramolecules, unique hydrophobic amphiphiles, polymers, nano-clusters, and colloidal particles. Construction of robust biomolecular assemblies with exotic structures, such as ring and hollow capsule, is achieved by rational designs of symmetric biomolecular conjugates. In addition, we comprehensively summarized leading-edge topics on optical/topological properties of self-assembled hybrid systems, such as circularly polarized luminescence or structural color. The preparation of colloidal amorphous array with photonic band gap-induced angle-independent structural color is also achieved in consideration of the following situations: i) two-body sphere–sphere potential, ii) disorder packing using different sizes of colloidal particles, and iii) softness of colloidal particles. Lastly, we demonstrated useful utilizations of exotic self-assembled objects. Flakelike microparticles were transcribed into various nano-flake metals and applied as temperature indicator for the local heating of an addictive. All findings described here show meaningful hybrid strategies in self-assembly techniques and their functionalization as well as materialization.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (246 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Self-assembled hybrid systems show exotic structures and distinguished functions. ► Hollow capsules are archived by rational design of symmetric biomolecular conjugates. ► Circularly polarized luminescent materials are derived from unique assemblies. ► Colloidal amorphous arrays show angle-independent structural color. ► Flakelike microparticles can use as template or matrix for structural materials.