Rational design of ABC triblock terpolymer solution nanostructures with controlled patch morphology

• DOI: 10.1038/ncomms12097
• Publication Date: 2016-06-29T10:52:54Z
• Authors: Tina I. Löbling; Oleg Borisov; Johannes S. Haataja; Olli Ikkala; André H. Gröschel; Axel H. E. Müller
• Keywords: Polymersome; Morphology; Gyroid; Soft matter

Abstract Block copolymers self-assemble into a variety of nanostructures that are relevant for science and technology. While the assembly diblock is largely understood, predicting solution triblock terpolymers remains challenging due to complex interplay block/block block/solvent interactions. Here we provide guidelines self-assembly linear ABC large multicompartment with C corona A/B cores. The ratio block lengths N / A thereby controls micelle geometry spheres, cylinders, bilayer sheets vesicles. insoluble blocks then microphase separate core surface patch B, where B morphology spherical, cylindrical, bicontinuous lamellar. independent control over both parameters allows constructing combinatorial libraries unprecedented nanostructures, including spheres-on-cylinders/sheets/vesicles, cylinders-on-sheets/vesicles, sheets/vesicles or lamellar membrane (patchy polymersomes). derived logical toolbox towards self-assemblies soft matter nanotechnologies.