Unravelling concentration-regulated self-assembly of a protonated polyoxometalate-polystyrene hybrid. (24th January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yu, Shu-Jun; Han, Yao-Kun; Wang, Wei
• Is Part Of: Polymer. Volume 162(2019)
• Page Start: 73
• Page End: 79
• Publication Date: 2019-01-24
• Subjects: Self-assembly -- Hybrids -- Polymers -- Polyoxometalates -- Morphological diversity; Polymers -- Periodicals; Polymerization -- Periodicals; Polymères -- Périodiques; Polymérisation -- Périodiques; 547.7
• DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2018.12.035
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-3861

Abstract

Abstract: The self-assembly of shape amphiphiles that was created by covalently tethering spherical nanoclusters and polymers has produced various aggregates such as spherical and cylindrical micelles and vesicles. However, mechanistic studies on the self-assembly of polyoxometalate-polymer hybrids are very limited. Here, we extend our previous work for better understanding of the concentration-induced self-assembly of a polyoxometalate-polystyrene (POM-PS) hybrid upon POM cluster protonation. By controlling the concentration, we could observe various morphologies from single molecules to micelles, compound micelles, spherical vesicles, cylindrical vesicles, and finally, large vesicles. These findings further deepen our mechanistic understanding of the self-assembly of the protonated hybrid, and will facilitate the development of aggregates that contain the protonated POM clusters with well-controlled structures and optimised functionality for future value-added applications. Graphical abstract: Image 10679 Highlights: Concentration-regulated self-assembly of a protonated POM-PS hybrid has been studied. Various morphologies were observed and the corresponding mechanisms were discussed. Effect of huge difference in size and shape between the H + -POM cluster and the PS block was studied.