Issue 10, 2021

Direct formation of nano-objects via in situ self-assembly of conjugated polymers

Abstract

Polymer self-assembly is a widely utilized method to prepare a wide range of nano-objects in solution. Typically, preparation of such objects relies on the use of block copolymers and challenging post-polymerization treatment steps. While polymerization induced self-assembly (PISA) can simplify their preparation, the resulting nano-objects typically have poor stability (including sensitivity to solvent, temperature, and mechanical stimuli). An alternative approach is to use conjugated polymers, with a strong driving force for self-assembly, to achieve semiconducting nano-objects. This process is termed in situ nanoparticlization of conjugated polymers (INCP) or PISA using conjugated polymers. With INCP, self-assembled nano-objects can be obtained (without any post-polymerization treatment steps) from block copolymers, using one-pot or one-shot methods, or even homopolymers. Due to the use of conjugated polymers, the nano-objects from INCP have the potential for use in various optoelectronic applications. In this Perspective, we summarize the development of INCP by discussing synthetic methods, accessible nano-objects morphologies, and mechanisms of nano-object formation.

Graphical abstract: Direct formation of nano-objects via in situ self-assembly of conjugated polymers

Article information

Article type
Perspective
Submitted
30 9月 2020
Accepted
20 11月 2020
First published
09 12月 2020

Polym. Chem., 2021,12, 1393-1403

Direct formation of nano-objects via in situ self-assembly of conjugated polymers

G. I. Peterson, S. Yang and T. Choi, Polym. Chem., 2021, 12, 1393 DOI: 10.1039/D0PY01389G

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