Dumbbell-like polyionic complexes of dendronized poly(ethylene glycol): synthesis and self-assembly studies

Here we report on the synthesis of dumbbell-like linear-dendritic copolymers based on polyethylene glycols bearing aspartic dendrons with terminal amino and carboxylic groups. The ionic complexes of such oppositely charged copolymers demonstrate the ability to self-assemble in water and methanol and form gels in low polar solvents. Differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing optical and atomic force microscopy, and X-ray diffraction methods indicate a lamellar structure of PEG-copolymer complexes. The thickness of the layers, degree of order, and crystallinity of the PEG microphase are determined by the structure of the branched block.

Automated summary

In this study, dumbbell-like linear-dendritic copolymers based on polyethylene glycols with aspartic dendrons were synthesized. The ionic complexes of these oppositely charged copolymers exhibited self-assembly in water and methanol and formed gels in low polar solvents. Various characterization techniques indicated a lamellar structure of the PEG-copolymer complexes, with the thickness, degree of order, and crystallinity of the PEG microphase determined by the structure of the branched block.