Geology

Nanotechnology

Organic chemistry

Interface (matter)

Oceanography

Langmuir

Langmuir–Blodgett film

Chemical physics

Aqueous solution

Chemistry

Materials science

Substrate (aquarium)

Molecule

Monolayer

Solid surface

Gibbs isotherm

Chemical Reviews

The Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) technique, through which monolayers are transferred from the air/water interface onto a solid substrate, was the first method to allow for the controlled assembly of organic molecules. With its almost 100 year history, it has been the inspiration for most methods to functionalize surfaces and produce nanocoatings, in addition to serving to explore concepts in molecular electronics and nanoarchitectonics. This paper provides an overview of the history of Langmuir monolayers and LB films, including the potential use in devices and a discussion on why LB films are seldom considered for practical applications today. Emphasis is then given to two areas where these films offer unique opportunities, namely, in mimicking cell membrane models and exploiting nanoarchitectonics concepts to produce sensors, investigate molecular recognitions, and assemble molecular machines. The most promising topics for the short- and long-term prospects of the LB technique are also highlighted.

The Past and the Future of Langmuir and Langmuir–Blodgett Films