Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for producing a composite material comprising a substrate and a monolayer of nanoparticles self-assembled thereupon, the method comprising: (i) providing a suspension comprising a solvent and nanoparticles dispersed therein; (ii) providing a substrate comprising a surface with void spaces for accommodating said nanoparticles; (iii) contacting one end of said substrate with said suspension in a closed system, to thereby gradually dispose said suspension over said substrate by capillary action, thereby forming a film of suspension on said substrate; and (iv) allowing evaporation of said film of suspension, thereby forming a monolayer of nanoparticles self-assembled in said void spaces on said surface of the substrate. The present invention also relates to composite material produced by the methods disclosed herein.