Progress in aqueous dispersion RAFT PISA

Polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) is an emerging platform technology offering many advantages to produce polymeric nano-objects compared to the solvent switch methods. Aqueous dispersion reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer PISA (aqueous dispersion RAFT PISA) has progressively won over many research groups due to its green chemical process and amazing efficiency to produce a wide range of morphologies. This review summarizes the recent works reported in the literature on the aqueous dispersion RAFT PISA. After a general introduction on the PISA process, exhaustive lists of the different RAFT activation techniques, the hy- drophilic steric stabilizers, and the monomers used are shown and discussed. Our objective is to provide an overview for experts and a toolbox for nonexperts that aim to explore this robust and efficient route to produce block copolymer-based nano-objects for a specific application.

Automated summary

Polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) is a promising platform technology for producing polymeric nano-objects, offering advantages over solvent switch methods. Aqueous dispersion reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer PISA (aqueous dispersion RAFT PISA) has gained popularity due to its green chemical process and high efficiency in producing various morphologies. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent works on aqueous dispersion RAFT PISA, including different RAFT activation techniques, hydrophilic steric stabilizers, and monomers used. It aims to serve as an overview for experts and a toolbox for non-experts interested in exploring this robust and efficient route for producing block copolymer-based nano-objects for specific applications.