Spherulite-Like Micelles

One-dimensional (1D) and 2D structures by crystallization-driven self-assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) can form fascinating hierarchical structures through secondary self-assembly. But examples of 3D structures formed via hierarchical self-assembly are rare. Here we report seeded growth experiments in decane of a poly(ferrocenyldimethylsilane) BCP with an amphiphilic corona forming block in which lenticular platelets grow into classic spherulite-like uniform colloidally stable structures. These 3D objects are spherically symmetric on the exterior, but asymmetric near the core, where there is a more open structure consisting of sheaf-like leaves. The most remarkable aspect of these experiments is that growth stops at different stages of growth process, depending upon how much unimer is added in the seeded growth step. The system provides a model for studying spherulitic growth where real-time observations on their growth at different stages remains challenging.

Automated summary

By crystallization-driven self-assembly, a BCP containing an amphiphilic ferrocenyldimethylsilane can form 3D structures similar to spherulites in decane, with externally spherical symmetry but asymmetric core structure consisting of sheaf-like leaves. The amount of added unimer determines the growth stoppage at different stages of the seeded growth experiment.