Self-assembled structures in immiscible systems of active, switchable nanocolloids*

We consider the synthesis and fabrication of active building blocks that can dynamically switch between two or more states and assemble into novel structures. We present novel steady-state structures predicted by computer simulation to assemble in systems of switchable, immiscible building blocks. We discuss the dynamics that stabilize these structures, explore approaches to analyze the dissipative nature of the system, and provide a mapping to experimental colloidal systems where these concepts could be implemented.