TY  - JOUR
A1  - Liu, Yue
A1  - Gould, Oliver E. C.
A1  - Kratz, Karl
A1  - Lendlein, Andreas
T1  - On demand sequential release of (sub)micron particles controlled by size and temperature
JF  - Small : nano micro
N2  - Polymeric devices capable of releasing submicron particles (subMP) on demand are highly desirable for controlled release systems, sensors, and smart surfaces. Here, a temperature-memory polymer sheet with a programmable smooth surface served as matrix to embed and release polystyrene subMP controlled by particle size and temperature. subMPs embedding at 80 degrees C can be released sequentially according to their size (diameter D of 200 nm, 500 nm, 1 mu m) when heated. The differences in their embedding extent are determined by the various subMPs sizes and result in their distinct release temperatures. Microparticles of the same size (D approximate to 1 mu m) incorporated in films at different programming temperatures T-p (50, 65, and 80 degrees C) lead to a sequential release based on the temperature-memory effect. The change of apparent height over the film surface is quantified using atomic force microscopy and the realization of sequential release is proven by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The demonstration and quantification of on demand subMP release are of technological impact for assembly, particle sorting, and release technologies in microtechnology, catalysis, and controlled release.
KW  - on demand particle release
KW  - temperature-memory effect
KW  - thermosensitive
KW  - polymer surface
Y1  - 2022
U6  - https://doi.org/10.1002/smll.202104621
SN  - 1613-6810
SN  - 1613-6829
VL  - 18
IS  - 5
PB  - Wiley-VCH
CY  - Weinheim
ER  -