Dynamic polymeric micelles versus frozen nanoparticles formed by block copolymers

Abstract

In selective solvents the solvophobic blocks of block copolymers associate leading to the formation of aggregates. If exchange of polymer chains between aggregates is rapid the system reaches equilibrium and the aggregates are dynamic. However, in many cases kinetically frozen aggregates are formed. In this highlight we review experimental and theoretical work focused on the kinetics of the formation of aggregates by block copolymers and on the rate of exchange of polymers between aggregates at steady state. We will illustrate the importance of the exchange dynamics by their effect on gels and ordered phases formed by block copolymers in solution.