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Abstract Nanoparticles form long‐range micropatterns via self‐assembly or directed self‐assembly with superior mechanical, electrical, optical, magnetic, chemical, and other functional properties for broad applications, such as structural supports, thermal exchangers, optoelectronics, microelectronics, and robotics. The precisely defined particle assembly at the nanoscale with simultaneously scalable patterning at the microscale is indispensable for enabling functionality and improving the performance of devices. This article provides a comprehensive review of nanoparticle assembly formed primarily via the balance of forces at the nanoscale (e.g., van der Waals, colloidal, capillary, convection, and chemical forces) and nanoparticle‐template interactions (e.g., physical confinement, chemical functionalization, additive layer‐upon‐layer). The review commences with a general overview of nanoparticle self‐assembly, with the state‐of‐the‐art literature review and motivation. It subsequently reviews the recent progress in nanoparticle assembly without the presence of surface templates. Manufacturing techniques for surface template fabrication and their influence on nanoparticle assembly efficiency and effectiveness are then explored. The primary focus is the spatial organization and orientational preference of nanoparticles on non‐templated and pre‐templated surfaces in a controlled manner. Moreover, the article discusses broad applications of micropatterned surfaces, encompassing various fields. Finally, the review concludes with a summary of manufacturing methods, their limitations, and future trends in nanoparticle assembly.
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This content will become publicly available on April 1, 2026
A Review on AC-Dielectrophoresis of Nanoparticles
Dielectrophoresis at the nanoscale has gained significant attention in recent years as a low-cost, rapid, efficient, and label-free technique. This method holds great promise for various interdisciplinary applications related to micro- and nanoscience, including biosensors, microfluidics, and nanomachines. The innovation and development of such devices and platforms could promote wider applications in the field of nanotechnology. This review aims to provide an overview of recent developments and applications of nanoparticle dielectrophoresis, where at least one dimension of the geometry or the particles being manipulated is equal to or less than 100 nm. By offering a theoretical foundation to understand the processes and challenges that occur at the nanoscale—such as the need for high field gradients—this article presents a comprehensive overview of the advancements and applications of nanoparticle dielectrophoresis platforms over the past 15 years. This period has been characterized by significant progress, as well as persistent challenges in the manipulation and separation of nanoscale objects. As a foundation for future research, this review will help researchers explore new avenues and potential applications across various fields.
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- PAR ID:
- 10617022
- Publisher / Repository:
- A Review on AC-Dielectrophoresis of Nanoparticles
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Micromachines
- Volume:
- 16
- Issue:
- 4
- ISSN:
- 2072-666X
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 453
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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