Phase Behavior of Linear-Bottlebrush Block Polymers

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c00337
• Publication Date: 2022-03-29T15:22:31Z
• Authors: Lucy Liberman; McKenzie L. Coughlin; Steven Weigand; Frank S. Bates; Timothy P. Lodge
• Keywords: Gyroid; Linear polymer

Block copolymers (BCPs) self-assembled into 3D network phases are promising for designing useful materials with multiple properties that rely on domain continuity. However, access to potential applications has been limited because formation linear BCPs tends occur only over narrow compositional windows. Another constraint is slow self-assembly kinetics at higher molecular weights, which limits the unit cell dimensions and resulting material properties. Architecturally asymmetric, linear-bottlebrush have previously demonstrated promote complex micellar phases. The architectural asymmetry induce favorable curvature toward block. copolymer phase behavior not systematically studied. Here, we map of eight sets diblock polymers a architecture in expected vicinity double-gyroid phase. We demonstrate effects block cohesive energy density double-gyroid, lamellar, hexagonal Through combination structural characterization techniques, shape polymer identity provide significant control factors dictate formation.