Stimuli-responsive micellar systems are an important class of materials with potential applications such as drug delivery and nanoreactors. Polymeric micellar systems are of particular interest because of their response to a wide variety of stimuli including pH, temperature, magnetic fields, and light. Light, of all, is a very attractive tool for altering the micelle formation because it allows spatial and temporal control as well as fine-tuning of parameters. This study introduces amphiphiles comprised of a novel organic photoswitchable molecule conjugated to a linear poly(ethylene oxide) chain end. We demonstrate the self-assembly of these unique amphiphiles into micelles in an aqueous medium and their responsiveness to visible light. Upon exposure, the photoswitchable unit isomerizes from a hydrophobic, extended form to a hydrophilic, compact form triggering micelle disruption and the release of cargo.  The responsiveness of this system to visible light, as opposed to UV light, expands the scope of applications for this technology to personal care, agricultural and home applications. In addition, this system exhibits reverse photochromism thus providing a convenient indicator of photoswitching and the delivery of guest molecules from the interior of the micelles.

Visible light responsive polymeric micelles based on novel organic photoswitches

247th National Meeting (2014)

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