Precise control over colloidal features is a key requirement in the development of particle-based materials. However, current synthetic techniques are often limited in their chemical and structural design due to incompatibilities between particle preparation methods and functional groups or polymer architectures. To address these restrictions, we are developing new strategies for the modification of preformed particles.<br/><br/>By transferring the powerful concept of post-polymerization functionalization to colloidal chemistry, we have developed a versatile synthetic platform for the preparation of (multi-)functional nanogel libraries. For this, we use well-defined precursor particles that contain crosslinked networks of reactive polymers. In such swollen colloids, we isotropically introduce internal functional groups after the particle synthesis. As a result, we can adjust the network composition with minimal variations in colloidal features, e.g. particle size and size distribution. This robust platform allows accurate investigations of structure-property relations that are challenging with conventional particle preparation methods.<br/><br/>Modification of this concept enables regioselective functionalization in phase separated block copolymer (BCP) particles. In this strategy, we use monomers for domain-selective swelling. Subsequent spatially-controlled polymerization increases the respective lamellae thickness. This creates a new asymmetric lamellar morphology, which is not accessible through established BCP assembly methods. In addition, this structure translates to particle elongation, i.e., a strong increase of the aspect ratio. Ultimately, the utilization of reactive monomers allows the incorporation of chemical functionality while retaining control over particle shape and morphology.

New synthetic strategies to control colloidal features after particle preparation

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