Self-assembled poly(l-lactide)-based platelets prepared via seeded growth

Abstract

Crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA) offers a powerful approach for constructing well-defined nanostructures; however, achieving precise control over two-dimensional (2D) platelet formation remains challenging, particularly for poly(L-lactide) (PLLA). In this work, we developed a seeded growth strategy using a mixture of homopolymers and diblock polymers to prepare PLLA platelets. In this system, homopolymers facilitate the formation of 2D platelets and enhance crystallization kinetics, while diblock polymers stabilize the platelets and provide functional moieties through their corona-forming block. By systematically optimizing temperature, polymer composition, and polymer length, we achieved size-controllable platelets. Furthermore, we successfully transferred the platelet preparation from batch to a continuous flow system to enable scalable production. This study contributes to the advancement of biodegradable and biocompatible nanoparticles, offering new possibilities for their application in biomedical and functional materials.