Self-assembly in Melts of Block copolymer-based Systems Featuring Supramolecular Interactions

Abstract: The subject of this thesis is experimental investigation of self-assembly in solvent-free (ionic) macromolecular systems that contain block copolymer chains as the basic constituent component in combination with low molecular weight amphiphiles. In particular, especial attention is paid to study thoroughly a new class of block copolymer-based ionic supramolecules, named as Linear-b-AmphComb, that feature novel hierarchical self-assembly characteristics. These Linear-b-AmphComb ionic supramolecules are produced by a facile and versatile supramolecular synthesis procedure that allows us to precisely control and fine-tune the molecular characteristics of the system. Through a wealth of experimental observations the relationships between the molecular characteristics of the system and its self-assembly properties, including the shape and the size characteristics of the resultant microdomains, are established. It is expected that, based on the results presented in this thesis, new routes are opened up in our (i) theoretical understanding of self-assembly in ionic macromolecular systems, and (ii) practical application capabilities to design new materials, where the desired structural properties are precisely controlled and fine-tuned by choosing the appropriate molecular characteristic of the system.