Reversible swelling transitions in stimuli-responsive layer-by-layer films containing block copolymer micelles

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Julia Gensel - , University of Bayreuth (Author)
  • Inna Dewald - , University of Bayreuth (Author)
  • Johann Erath - , University of Bayreuth (Author)
  • Eva Betthausen - , University of Bayreuth (Author)
  • Axel H.E. Müller - , University of Bayreuth (Author)
  • Andreas Fery - , University of Bayreuth (Author)

Abstract

We present a new nanoporous multilayer system with a reversible pH-triggered swelling transition. Using the layer-by-layer approach, pH-responsive block copolymer micelles with a hydrophobic core, a weak polyanion shell and a strong polycation corona formed from an ABC triblock terpolymer are included within multilayer films. The approach of complexing the strong polycationic corona with a strong polyanion leads to the creation of novel double-end-tethered polyelectrolyte brush structures confined between the hydrophobic micellar cores and the interpolyelectrolyte complexes. The swelling degree, morphology as well as the mechanical properties of the coatings are reversibly tunable by the solution pH due to the ionization-induced swelling of the pH-sensitive polyelectrolyte-brush-like shell of the incorporated micelles resulting in large-scale volumetric changes of the film. Moreover, controlling the internal film architecture by the number of deposition steps allows tuning the properties of the porous multilayers such as the density of incorporated micelles, the porosity, and the equilibrium swelling degree to more than 1200%.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)325-334
Number of pages10
JournalChemical science
Volume4
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 2013
Peer-reviewedYes
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas