Block Copolymer Colloidal Particles with Unique Structures through Three-dimensional Confined Assembly and Disassembly

Abstract

Structured block copolymer (BCP) particles have gained increasing attention due to their potential applications in separation, catalysis, controlled release, and other fields. Three-dimensional (3D) confined assembly has been proved as a facile yet robust approach for generating BCP particles with controllable shapes and internal structures. In this feature article, we summarized the preparation of structured polymeric particles through 3D confined self-assembly of BCPs. The effects of interfacial interactions, degree of confinement, and additives on the shape and internal structure of BCP microparticles were comprehensively discussed. In addition, we highlighted the recent progress in using disassembly as a route to synthesize colloidal particles with unique structures. Two strategies were introduced in this part: (a) disassembling the discrete domains resulted in mesoporous microparticles; (b) disassembling the continuous domains led to the dissociation of microparticles into micelle-like nano-objects. The applications of the structured colloidal particles in photonic crystals, controlled release, and directed growth of inorganic materials were also presented. Finally, we discussed the current challenges and future opportunities in this promising area.