Micellization and the surface hydrophobicity of amphiphilic poly(vinylphenol)-block-polystyrene block copolymers

The self-assembly of PVPh-b-PS in different solvents was studied. Upon replacing toluene by THF as the solvent, the morphology of the resulting aggregates change from core-shell spheres, rod-like micelles and vesicles to onion-like aggregates. With increasing block copolymer concentration, morphologies such as honeycomb-like films, surfaces of aggregated large porous spheres, or pincushion-like spheres with protruding tubular vesicle aggregates are observed. These surface-patterned films show significantly enhanced hydrophobicity. The results suggest that a superhydrophobic . behavior can be achieved, with a maximum contact angle of 158 degrees, by using the pincushion-like micellar structure.