Reverse Thermal Organogel

Abstract

Poly(ethylene glycol)-polypeptide diblock copolymer solutions undergo a clear-sol-to-clear-gel transition (reverse thermal gelation) as the temperature increases at as low a concentration as 1.0 wt % in chloroform (see figure). The micellar aggregation model involving desolvation of the poly(ethylene glycol) is suggested for the unique behavior of the polymer solution.