Elusive 3D printed nanoparticles could lead to new shapeshifting materials

https://phys.org/news/2024-03-elusive-3d-nanoparticles-shapeshifting-materials.html

"nanoprinted 10s of 1,000s Archimedean tetrahedrons with tips lopped off, self-assembles in solution into various crystal structures... shifts between at least 2 shapes in minutes using nanoprining: (1) hexagonal pattern, tetrahedrons rest flat on substrate, truncated tips pointing upward, (2) crystalline quasi-diamond alternating upward- and downward-facing orientations... shift using magnetic field, electric current, or heat... solar panel coatings, hydrophobic films for windows and airplane wings, computer memory"