Functionalizable Nanomorphology Gradients via Colloidal Self-Assembly.

We present a novel approach for the fabrication of tailored nanomorphology gradients on metal oxide surfaces. We first show the direct formation of a nanocolloidal density gradient by a dip-coating process. The obtained silica nanoparticle gradients are then subjected to a heat treatment. Control of this sintering step allows the precise tailoring of the particle morphology on the surface. Both these processes together provide a new tool to form precise, tunable, and material-independent nanomorphology gradients.