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Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
Published on: June 20, 2019
Controlled ring-opening polymerisation of cyclic esters: polymer blocks in self-assembled nanostructures
1Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, UKCV4 7AL. a.p.dove@warwick.ac.uk
Chemical Communications (Cambridge, England)
|December 6, 2008
Summary
This review covers poly(ester)s synthesized via controlled ring-opening polymerization for block copolymers. These materials exhibit unique self-assembly properties, leading to novel nanostructured materials.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Poly(ester)s are versatile polymers with tunable properties.
- Block copolymers containing poly(ester) segments offer unique self-assembly capabilities.
- Controlled polymerization techniques are crucial for synthesizing well-defined block copolymers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the state-of-the-art applications of poly(ester)s in block copolymer self-assembly.
- To detail synthesis methods and properties of poly(ester)s, including poly(lactic acid) stereocomplexes.
- To explore the combination of ring-opening polymerization with controlled radical polymerization for functional block copolymers.
Main Methods:
- Living/controlled ring-opening polymerization (ROP) for poly(ester) synthesis.
- Utilization of metal, metal-free, small molecule organic, and enzymatic catalysts.
- Combination of ROP with controlled radical polymerization (CRP) techniques.
Main Results:
- Successful synthesis of poly(ester) containing functional block copolymers.
- Demonstration of self-assembly in both solution and solid phases.
- Characterization of nanostructured materials derived from poly(ester) block copolymers.
Conclusions:
- Poly(ester)s synthesized by controlled ROP are key components for advanced block copolymer self-assembly.
- The combination of ROP and CRP provides versatile routes to functional block copolymers.
- These materials yield nanostructures with unique properties and characteristics.
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