The phase separation of block copolymer systems has been intensively studied for copolymers in the intermediate dispersity regime (dispersity index = 1.05-2.00). However, examples of truly monodisperse (synthetic) systems (dispersity index = 1) are scarce. To evaluate the limits of precision polymer synthesis and the segregation behavior of a perfectly defined polymeric system, we developed a scalable synthesis route for discrete length (i.e., monodisperse) diblock co-oligomers (DP = 25-100) with varying length and composition based on dimethylsiloxane and lactic acid monomers. Detailed studies of the phase separation gave exclusive insights in the phase separation of these low MW block co-oligomers such as an unprecedentedly high degree of ordering and extreme sensitivity toward dispersity.

Dispersity under scrutiny: Exploring limits in block copolymer self-assembly

2019 Spring National Meeting

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