# Self-assembly of orthorhombic Fddd network in simple one-component liquids

## TL;DR

This study demonstrates through molecular dynamics simulations that simple one-component liquids can self-assemble into complex orthorhombic Fddd network structures, similar to those seen in block copolymers, revealing a generic phase transition mechanism.

## Contribution

It shows that triply periodic Fddd network morphologies can form in simple liquids, expanding understanding of self-assembly beyond block copolymer systems.

## Key findings

- Self-assembly into Fddd networks observed in simulations.
- Molecular geometry is not critical for network formation.
- Triply periodic networks are a generic phase transition in simple liquids.

## Abstract

Triply periodic continuous morphologies arising a result of the microphase separation in block copolymer melts have so far never been observed self-assembled in systems of particles with spherically symmetric interaction. We report a molecular dynamics simulation of two simple one-component liquids which self-assemble upon cooling into equilibrium orthorhombic continuous network morphologies with the Fddd space group symmetry reproducing the structure of those observed in block copolymers. The finding that the geometry of constituent molecules isn't relevant for the formation of triply periodic networks indicates the generic nature of this class of phase transition.