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Statistical Characterization of Self-Assembled Colloidal Crystals by Single-Step Vertical Deposition

We have statistically characterized the self-assembly of multi-layer polystyrene colloidal crystals, using the technique of vertical deposition, with parameters chosen to produce thick layers of self-assembled crystals in one deposition step. In addition, using a lithographically directed self-assembly method, we have shown that the size of multi-layer, continuous crack-free domains in lithographically defined areas can be many times larger than in the surrounding areas. In a single deposition step, we have produced continuous colloidal crystal films of 260 nm diameter polystyrene spheres approximately 30 -- 40 layers thick, with a controllable lateral size of 80 -- 100 $\upmu$m without lithography, and as high as 250 $\upmu$m with the lithographic template.