One-step assembly of multi-layered structures with orthogonally oriented stripe-like patterns on the surface of a capillary tube.

We developed a robust method to construct large-scale multi-layered assemblies with orthogonally oriented stripes on a capillary tube using a confined evaporative self-assembly (CESA) method. A mixture of conductive polymer poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and biocompatible polylactic acid (PLA) was chosen as the model polymer and the molecular chain orientation of P3HT in an individual stripe could be assessed by laser confocal polarization Raman spectroscopy. These structures could provide contact cues to guide the growth of smooth muscle cells for potential tissue engineering applications.