Data_Sheet_1_Microscale Self-Assembly of Upconversion Nanoparticles Driven by Block Copolymer.docx

Lanthanide-based upconversion nanoparticles can convert low-energy excitation to high-energy emission. The self-assembled upconversion nanoparticles with unique structures have considerable promise in sensors and optical devices due to intriguing properties. However, the assembly of isotropic nanocrystals into anisotropic structures is a fundamental challenge caused by the difficulty in controlling interparticle interactions. Herein, we report a novel approach for the preparation of the chain-like assemblies of upconversion nanoparticles at different scales from nano-scale to micro-scale. The dimension of chain-like assembly can be fine-tuned using various incubation times. Our study observed Y-junction aggregate morphology due to the flexible nature of amphiphilic block copolymer. Furthermore, the prepared nanoparticle assemblies of upconversion nanoparticles with lengths up to several micrometers can serve as novel luminescent nanostructure and offer great opportunities in the fields of optical applications.

基于镧系元素的上转换纳米粒子能够将低能激发转化为高能发射。这些具有独特结构的自组装上转换纳米粒子因具备引人入胜的特性，在传感器和光学器件领域展现出巨大的应用潜力。然而，由于难以控制粒子间的相互作用，将各向同性的纳米晶体组装成各向异性的结构构成了一项基本挑战。本研究报道了一种新型方法，用于制备不同尺度（从纳米尺度到微米尺度）的链状上转换纳米粒子组装。通过调节不同的孵化时间，可以精细调整链状组装的尺寸。研究发现，由于两亲性嵌段共聚物的柔性特性，形成了Y形交汇的聚集体形态。此外，制备的长度可达数微米的上转换纳米粒子组装体可作为新型发光纳米结构，为光学应用领域提供了广阔的发展机遇。