Supraparticles

Supraparticles are defined aggregates composed of small building blocks known as primary particles. They can be fabricated by the confined assembly of these primary particles in dispersion droplets, either by droplet-based microfluidics with high uniformity or by scalable spray drying processes. Supraparticles can emergent properties not found in the individual primary particles. These result from the controlled internal structure formed by the primary particles. This gives rise to novel functionalities, such as structural coloration, increases powder flowability, and porosity. Our research combines a fundamental interest in structure formation within droplets, with an interest in creating defined powder systems to systematically explore structure-property relations. In terms of applications, we currently use such supraparticle systems as stabilizers of liquid marbles, porous materials, catalyst supports, and powders for additive manufacturing.