Metal dendrimers: synthesis of hierarchically stellated nanocrystals by sequential seed-directed overgrowth.

Hierarchically organized structures are prevalent in nature, where such features account for the adhesion properties of gecko feet and the brilliant color variation of butterfly wings. Achieving artificial structures with multiscale features is of interest for metamaterials and biomimetic applications. However, the fabrication of such structures relies heavily on lithographic approaches, although self-assembly routes to superstructures are promising. Sequential seed-directed overgrowth is now demonstrated as a route to metal dendrimers, which are hierarchically branched nanocrystals (NCs) with a three-dimensional order analogous to that of molecular dendrimers. This method was applied to a model Au/Pd NC system; in general, the principle of sequential seed-directed overgrowth should enable the synthesis of new hierarchical inorganic structures with high symmetry.