Polymer-mediated hierarchical and reversible emulsion droplet assembly

Abstract

(Figure Presented) Making and breaking: Stable, functional micrometer-sized emulsion droplets can be assembled into various complex macroscopic liquid structures (see picture). The hierarchical assembly process is mediated by interactions between polymeric surfactant molecules located on the droplet surfaces. These interdroplet interactions are reversible, therefore these "engineered emulsions" can be readily disassembled by using a simple pH switch. © 2009 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.