Topology-transformable block copolymers based on a rotaxane structure: change in bulk properties with same composition.
basic_science · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 34702810.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1038/s41467-021-26249-0 and PMC identifier 8548399.
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Abstract
The topology of polymers affects their characteristic features, i.e., their microscopic structure and macroscopic properties. However, the topology of a polymer is usually fixed during the construction of the polymer chain and cannot be transformed after its determination during the synthesis. In this study, topology-transformable block copolymers that are connected via rotaxane linkages are introduced. We will present systems in which the topology transformation of block copolymers changes their 1) microphase-separated structures and 2) macroscopic mechanical properties. The combination of a rotaxane structure at the junction point and block copolymers that spontaneously form microphase-separated structures in the bulk provides access to systems that cannot be attained using conventional covalent bonds.