ABSTRACT
The surface-programmed assembly process uses surface molecular patterns to direct the assembly of nanostructures onto desired locations with precise orientations. Based on a simple two-step process, it can be used for the assembly of extremely versatile nanostructures such as nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and nanowires. One solution for this problem is often called the surface-programmed assembly (SPA) process, and it adapts the self-assembly process of nano-structures inspired by self-assembly in nature. The surface-programmed assembly process can also be applied to functional proteins. The SPA process is somewhat similar to this in nanoscale. However, it also should be noted that the actual SPA process involves mechanisms that are a bit more complicated than simple selective adsorption. The chapter describes how one can pattern organic molecules on solid substrates and how nanostructures assemble onto the patterned substrate. Organic molecules can be patterned using the microcontact printing method.
