Polymerization-induced self-assembly of random bottlebrush copolymers

Abstract

Bottlebrush polymers have shown unique self-assembly behaviors, providing an access to hierarchical nanoparticles with a precise structure and tailorable function. However, the self-assembly pattern of random bottlebrush copolymers (random BBCPs)...

In Situ Synthesis of Branched Block Copolymer Assemblies via RAFT Dispersion Polymerization Using Branched Macro‐RAFT Agents†

“…Very recently, graft copolymer assemblies as well as brush‐type copolymer assemblies were also synthesized by RAFT dispersion polymerization using multifunctional macro‐RAFT agents with RAFT groups being conjugated to a polymeric backbone. [ 55,63‐64 ] To further control the distribution of side chains, we combined photoiniferter RAFT polymerization and RAFT dispersion polymerization to synthesize a series of well‐defined graft copolymer assemblies. [ 65 ] Hong et al .…”

Thermal- and oxidation dual-responsive random copolymer self-assembly of nanostructures

“…7 Recognizing these challenges, several selective selffolding and self-assembly systems using amphiphilic random copolymers in water or organic solutions have recently been demonstrated. [8][9][10] When in water, these random copolymers stimulate self-assembly through a chain folding process that results in unimer micelles and nanoaggregates. In this configuration, hydrophilic segments effectively conceal the hydro-phobic backbones and pendants along the folded main chains.…”

Self-Healable, Stretchable, and Super-Soft Bottlebrush Polyester Elastomers for Highly Sensitive Flexible Sensors

“…Bottlebrush polymers possess a unique architecture with dense and brush-like side chains, and their backbones are forced to take an extended conformation due to the repulsion effect. − Thus, the formation of entanglements is significantly suppressed in the dry networks of bottlebrush polymers, making the bottlebrush polymer an ideal candidate for the fabrication of super-soft elastomers free of solvents. − Ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) has been a powerful tool to produce well-defined bottlebrush polymers via the “grafting-through” synthesis of norbornenyl-terminated macromonomers. − Some prior works have reported the fabrication of super-soft solvent-free elastomers by cross-linking the side chains of the ROMP-derived polymers. , However, elastomers based on bottlebrush polymers are usually cross-linked via nondynamic covalent bonds, and these materials cannot repair themselves, thereby significantly shortening their service life and reducing their reliability. , Moreover, nearly all of the existing super-soft elastomers from bottlebrush polymers consist of nondegradable materials, which is not helpful to build a sustainable society. − Therefore, biodegradable elastomers integrated with super-softness and self-healing properties are highly desirable to meet the combination of different requirements. , …”