Asymmetric deformation of swollen microspheres on a water surface

Abstract

We demonstrate an approach to fabricating asymmetric particles simply by assembly of swollen spheres on a water surface and evaporation of the swelling agent. The swelling process plasticizes the polymer spheres, rendering them deformable. After assembly, the spheres are subject to the surface tension force of water, leading to the deformation of the spheres. Asymmetric particles can be collected after evaporation of the swelling agent.