Synthesis of Stimuli‐Responsive Block Copolymers and Block Copolymer Nano‐assemblies

Abstract

Comprehensive Summary Block copolymers have aroused much interest, and their application has been rapidly expanded. In recent years, our group has committed to exploring synthesis and self‐assembly of block copolymers. We have designed and synthesized several new thermo‐responsive polymers and photo‐responsive polymers by living/controlled radical polymerization (LCRP) and investigated their stimuli‐responsive properties. Aiming at convenient and efficient synthesis of block copolymer nano‐assemblies, we have developed several methods based on polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA). Herein, we give a short summary of our research in these years. The aim of this account is to stimulate innovative synthesis strategies of block copolymer nano‐assemblies, and promote more scientific research cooperation to face the exciting opportunities and challenges encountered in block copolymers. What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group? Thermo‐responsive polymers based on dialkylamine groups may be the such thing. It is found that the dialkylamine groups especially the diethylamine group act the predominant role to the thermo‐response, and based on this finding several new thermo‐responsive polymers and stimuli‐responsive block copolymer nano‐assemblies have been synthesized. How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers? Since 2004 I got Ph.D. degree in polymer chemistry and physics from Nankai University, I began my research mainly on polymer chemistry till now. I think it the most important to focus on a topic useful in science or in practical application, which helps to maintain interest continuously. How do you supervise your students? It is a good way to discuss with students timely and deeply. What is the most important personality for scientific research? Hard work and keen interest. What are your hobbies? What's your favorite book(s)? I like flower farming and fishing. When I retire, I think I will be a good farmer. Who influences you mostly in your life? My parents. They are simple, kind hearted and hardworking.

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

“…Over the past thirteen years or so, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) has become an efficient and versatile approach for the synthesis of various block copolymer assemblies at high polymer concentrations (10—50 wt%). [ 5‐43 ] PISA involves the growth of a second block from a soluble precursor block that forms a block copolymer. The second block becomes insoluble as increasing the molar mass, which drives in situ self‐assembly of the block copolymer during polymerization.…”

Thermo‐Responsive Hydrogels Coupled with Photothermal Agents for Biomedical Applications

“…PEG-Based Block or Graft Copolymers: Thermo-responsive block copolymers are usually composed of two or more hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymer blocks. [61] To make the critical solution temperature of thermo-responsive block copolymers closer to physiological temperature, tuning the ratio of hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments is a valid method. [15] Polyethylene glycol (PEG), synonymous with polyethylene oxide (PEO), an inert biocompatible material, is highly soluble in water.…”

Self‐assembly Promoted Crystallization of Diblock Copolypeptoids in Solution†

“…[ 18‐25 ] Crystallization of polymers is a kinetically controlled process, which endows the assemblies with a large number of unique properties with high tunability. [ 22‐23,26‐27 ] Lately, crystallization‐driven self‐assembly (CDSA) has been demonstrated as an efficient strategy to access multiscale nanostructures with precise controllability. [ 20,22,26,28 ] Great efforts have been devoted to the achievement of well‐defined nanostructures using CDSA strategy.…”