Low‐Temperature Fusion of Polymeric Nanostructures Using Carbon Dioxide

Abstract

A low-temperature fusion method for preparing polymeric nanostructures based on low-pressure CO2-enhanced chain mobility at the nanoscale is presented. Characterization of the structures reveals a pressure-tunable rubbery layer on the surface. The successful fusion of polymeric nanostructures (see figure) at temperatures below the bulk glass-transition temperature of the polymer is demonstrated. The technique has potential for the assembly of 3D micro/nanoscale polymeric devices for biomedical applications.