Block polymers (BPs), and their ability to self-assemble into a variety of nanoscale structures with tailored chemical and physical properties, have motivated extensive research investigations for many emerging nanotechnologies such as nanotemplates, analytical separation membranes, and electrical and ionic conductors. In many cases, the utility of BPs for the above applications is predicated on the ability to generate well-controlled macromolecules. In the Epps group, we have focused on two major aspects related to the generation of well-defined macromolecules <i>via</i> anionic polymerization techniques. In the first area, we are generating complex nanoscale networks through the combination of anionic polymerization with judicious polymer blending and hydrogenation procedures. This approach is allowing us to assess the stability of triply-periodic nanostructures in triblock terpolymers. In the second area, we are manipulating polymer synthesis feeds through the use of programmable syringe pumps to introduce tapered profiles into diblock copolymer and triblock terpolymer interfaces. These synthetic interfacial modifications allow us to tune thermal and mechanical properties independent of molecular weight without eliminating complex network structures such as the double gyroid.

Generating complex self-assemblies from block polymers: Triply-periodic structures from anionic polymerization

251st National Meeting (2016)

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