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Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
Published on: June 20, 2019
Light-driven sequential shape transformation of block copolymer particles through three-dimensional confined
Dengwen Hu1, Yaping Wang1, Jintao Liu1
1College of Materials, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Organosilicon Chemistry and Material Technology, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. changxiaohua@hznu.edu.cn.
Researchers developed block copolymer particles exhibiting sequential shape transformation triggered by light. These smart materials show potential for controlled drug delivery applications with high spatial-temporal resolution.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Shape-controlled block copolymer (BCP) particles responsive to light are crucial for smart materials.
- Sequential shape transformation (SST) in polymeric particles triggered by light remains an underexplored area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate BCP particles with light-controlled sequential shape transformation (SST) behavior.
- To investigate the mechanism behind light-induced shape changes in BCP particles.
Main Methods:
- Confined co-assembly of polystyrene-block-poly(2-vinylpyridine) (PS-b-P2VP) with azo-containing additives within emulsions.
- Utilizing quaternization of P2VP chains and UV-induced trans-cis isomerization of azo groups to alter interfacial interactions.
Main Results:
- Fabricated BCP particles demonstrating light-controlled SST behavior.
- Observed sequential transformations: elongation, accordion-like shape change, and disassembly into spheres.
- Demonstrated light-controlled drug release capabilities with high spatial-temporal resolution.
Conclusions:
- Successfully developed polymeric particles with light-triggered sequential shape transformation.
- The mechanism involves light-induced changes in interfacial interactions.
- These particles hold significant potential for advanced applications in biomedicine and drug delivery.
