Freezing-induced ordering of block copolymer micelles

Abstract

We demonstrate here the ordering of block copolymer micelles by ice templating, below 0 °C. We used this for the preparation of silica monoliths that present an ice-templated macroporosity, combined with a 2D hexagonal mesostructure templated by the addition of P123. We propose a mechanism triggered by the progressive freezing-induced concentration.