Self-assembled microstructures at interfaces

A recently introduced layer-by-layer self-assembly method that enables the fabrication of molecularly controlled multilayer films by alternate deposition of polycations and polyanions has matured into a very promising and versatile technique in thin film research and applications. Many details of the preparation and structural properties of these films have been revealed by a number of experimental techniques, among which X-ray and neutron reflectivities have been the most powerful. Various functional characteristics of the prepared supramolecular assemblies have been presented during the past year. Particularly important are results obtained with conducting polymers, and results obtained in the field of light emitting polymers.