The programmed synthesis of block copolymers can be achieved by a number of controlled polymerization methodologies. Using ATRP novel amphiphilic diblock copolymers have been prepared starting from PEO-based non-ionic surfactants having an aliphatic end-group. The resultant styrenic block copolymers have been synthesized and fully characterized. The block copolymers show intriguing crystallization in the solid state, and self-assembly behavior in aqueous solution. The PEO block in all of the prepared samples was found be amorphous, which contrasts with the PEO surfactant precursor, MeOPEO-b-PS and fluorinated DNPEPEO-b-PFMAs (Macromolecules 2013, 46, 3737−3745). These results indicate the profound influence of the end-group to direct physical properties. Block polymer particles (BCPs) with mesoporous internal structures are formed by self-assembly in THF/water solutions. The transformation of internal and surface structures of these BCP as a function of water content and temperature were investigated by TEM, SEM and DLS. The internal mesoporous structures of the BCPs were richly varied, and could be interesting materials for catalysis, templating and delivery applications. The influence of end-groups to afford the ability to direct, or program, structure in solution or the solid state will be discussed.

Programed block copolymers: At the end it is always good to be smart

249th National Meeting (2015)

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