# Self-limiting particle assembly on soft substrates

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Villanova University (PA) · $523,654

## Abstract

Understanding and controlling the interaction between particle and soft substrate is of fundamental importance, particularly in biological and manufacturing processes. For example, such  processes include drug particle delivery onto soft tissues, as well as advanced manufacturing of particle coating on flexible polymer substrates. Despite extensive efforts, the existing analysis models commonly ignore or mistreat the mechanical collision process during the interaction between particle and soft substrate. The goal of this research is to lay the theoretical and experimental foundation for the collision-based assembly process. This research will lead to a new method for predicting and designing the particle assembly on soft substrate materials. Results from this project  will enable the development of precise drug delivery and accurate, sustainable, and waste-free manufacturing of flexible electronics that will minimize the footprint of nanomaterials in biological and environmental systems. The research team will also create impactful and broad-reaching nanotechnology education programs that include the Villanova University-Library STEM program, and a Nanotechnology Research Training and Curriculum aimed at attracting and training the future workforce. 

This research will elucidate a new collision-based self-limiting assembly mechanism and establish an Acoustic Self-limiting Assembly of Particle method for hard-particle-on-soft-substrate systems. The team will pioneer an inte

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2423869
- **Awardee organization:** Villanova University (PA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** EYNYSU6L8ZX6
- **PI:** Bo Li
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** NANO NON-SOLIC SCI & ENG AWD
- **Estimated total:** $523,654
- **Funds obligated:** $523,654
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2423869

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2423869, Self-limiting particle assembly on soft substrates. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2423869. Licensed CC0.

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