Molecular architecture effect on self-assembled nanostructures of a linear-dendritic rod triblock copolymer in solution

The synthesis and solution self-assembly of a triblock copolymer containing two hydrophobic blocks that were monodendron-jackedted polymethacrylate (PDMA) obtained by polymerization of a generation 1 (G1) Percec-type dendritic methacrylate and a middle hydrophilic flexible block of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), was discussed. PDMA is more rigid dendritic side groups attached to each repeating unit, compared with conventional polymers with PMA backbones. The self-assembly morphology of the triblock copolymer induced by changing water content in the binary solvent mixture (THF/water) was investigated. The triblock architecture could lead to the bridging of PEG chains between micelles, in addition to the core-fringe structure.