Reactive Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Suspended Thin Films and Semipermeable Membranes at Interfaces Created Between Aqueous and Organic Phases

Thin films of polymer suspended across the openings of pores, channels, and microcavities are of interest in a broad range of fundamental and applied contexts. A "reactive" layer-by-layer approach is demonstrated for the fabrication of suspended thin films and semipermeable membranes that makes use of liquid/liquid interfaces created between immiscible aqueous and organic phases as templates for film fabrication (see image).