Self-assembled aggregates of dendritic-linear copolymers: vesicles and microspheres

Abstract

Owing to the peculiarity of its molecular architecture, dendritic-linear copolymer consisting of Percec type dendron molecules and a relatively stiff poly{2,5-bis[(4′-methoxyphenyl)oxycarbonyl]styrene} (PMPCS) chain could self-assemble into hollow spherical particles in common solvent. This type of self-assembly offers a new convenient route for obtaining hollow vesicles in copolymer systems without secondary bonding. And vesicular structures and micro-spherical compound micelles can be obtained in selective solvents. Additionally, under moisture-rich conditions, solution-cast films of dendron-b-PMPCS can form well-defined honey-comb patterns.