Double Gyroid Morphologies in Precise Ion-Containing Multiblock Copolymers Synthesized via Step-Growth Polymerization

Area of Science:

• Soft matter physics
• Polymer science
• Materials science

Background:

• The double gyroid is a complex, co-continuous morphology in block copolymers, typically observed in a narrow composition range.
• Its intricate structure has fascinated researchers for decades, limiting its widespread application.
• Traditional synthesis methods like anionic polymerization offer precise control but are often restricted to specific compositions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight alternative polymerization methods for synthesizing block copolymers.
• To report double gyroid structures with sub-10 nm lattice parameters.
• To propose criteria for broader and more accessible synthesis of polymers forming double gyroid structures.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing step-growth polymerization to create strictly alternating multiblock copolymers.
• Linking precise polyethylene blocks with short sulfonate-containing blocks.
• Characterizing the self-assembled morphologies and lattice parameters.

Main Results:

• Achieved double gyroid structures over a significantly wider composition range (>14 vol %) compared to traditional methods.
• Demonstrated double gyroid structures with lattice parameters below 10 nm.
• Established a strong correlation between polymer architecture control, large interaction parameters, and double gyroid formation.

Conclusions:

• Step-growth polymerization offers a more versatile route to complex polymer morphologies like the double gyroid.
• Precise control over polymer architecture and block interactions are key to accessing these structures.
• This work paves the way for broader synthetic accessibility and utilization of double gyroid structures in technological applications.