This talk will present some recent work in the use of photochemistry in two different contexts. First, photocleavable linkages, such as those based on 2-nitrobenzyl alcohol, provide a convenient handle for photo-responsiveness. We have explored the self-assembly of block copolymers where the hydrophobic core block contains the photocleavable unit. In this design, the hydrophobic core block remains hydrophobic after cleavage, but the substantial change in the hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance results in a morphology change (e.g.: from vesicle to micelle) over time. These assemblies were characterized using static and dynamic light scattering, as well as electron microscopy.  The second part of this talk will focus on some recent advances in photolinking “thiol-ene” chemistry to produce functional thermoset networks.  Here, molecular-level modifications can impart additional function and improve overall macroscopic properties of these novel materials. We present some recent work where we incorporate azobenzene (which imparts photo-responsive properties) or Diels-Alder moieties (that act as dynamic covalent linkages) into the polymer network.<br/>

Photo-cleaving and photo-linking: Applications for networks and self-assemblies

2019 Spring National Meeting

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