Approaches to quantifying and visualizing polyelectrolyte multilayer film formation on particles

Abstract

Colloidal particles prepared by using the layer-by-layer technique are increasingly finding application in diagnostics, drug delivery, and sensing. Herein, we outline methods for applying three established techniques, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), flow cytometry, and differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy, to characterize ultrathin films of poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) assembled on silica particles. Both CLSM and flow cytometry require the use of fluorescently labeled polyelectrolytes (PEs). The film homogeneity can be assessed using CLSM, while flow cytometry allows analysis at unparalleled speed (thousands of particles per ..