Fig. 1: Schematics of X-shaped nanoparticles.
From: Self-strengthening biphasic nanoparticle assemblies with intrinsic catch bonds
a Each nanoparticle is formed by rigid members connected with hinge joints (gray nodes). Each nanoparticle has primary binding sites (PBS, red), secondary binding sites (SBS, blue), and switch mechanisms. The hinge-like switch is highlighted with a dashed box. Gray beads have steric repulsion to create inaccessible volume determining the shape of the nanoparticles. b When two nanoparticles are in the open state, their switch members are angled and they can form a dimer via two intermolecular interactions (red dashed lines). c When two nanoparticles transition to the closed state, the switch members become straight and the dimer forms an additional intermolecular interaction (blue dashed line). The switch interactions and applied external forces are indicated by black dashed lines and black arrows, respectively.
