Amphiphilic Polymer Conetworks Based on End-Linked “Core-First” Star Block Copolymers: Structure Formation with Long-Range Order

Abstract

Amphiphilic polymer conetworks are cross-linked polymers that swell both in water and in organic solvents and can phase separate on the nanoscale in the bulk or in selective solvents. To date, however, this phase separation has only been reported with short-range order, characterized by disordered morphologies. We now report the first example of amphiphilic polymer conetworks, based on end-linked "core-first" star block copolymers, that form a lamellar phase with long-range order. These mesoscopically ordered systems can be produced in a simple fashion and exhibit significantly improved mechanical properties.