Synthesis and Characterization of PDMS-, PVP-, and PS-Containing ABCBA Pentablock Copolymers

Amphiphilic ABCBA pentablock copolymers based on PVP, PS, and PDMS were synthesized using a combination of ATRP and RAFT polymerizations. The PVP-block-PS-block-PDMS-block-PS-block-PVP pentablock copolymer was characterized using a variety of chromatography and spectroscopic methods which showed that a high degree of end group and molecular weight control can be achieved. Preliminary analysis of the aqueous solution behavior of the pentablock copolymer showed that it self-assembles in water in order to shield the PDMS and PS segments from the water.