The basic mechanism of soft templates involves the formation of a transient, flexible scaffold. The template molecules self-assemble into specific shapes or structures, which serve as a mold or framework. Nanoparticles or other nanoscale materials are then formed within or around this scaffold. Once the desired nanostructures are synthesized, the soft template can often be removed through simple processes such as washing or heating, leaving behind the nanomaterial in the desired configuration.
