Latest Advances on the Synthesis of Linear ABC-Type Triblock Terpolymers and Star-Shaped Polymers by RAFT Polymerization

• Published in: Polymers Vol. 13; no. 11; p. 1698
• Main Authors: Skandalis, Athanasios, Sentoukas, Theodore, Giaouzi, Despoina, Kafetzi, Martha, Pispas, Stergios
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Switzerland MDPI AG 22-05-2021; MDPI
• Subjects: ABC triblock terpolymers; Acids; Addition polymerization; Aqueous solutions; Degree of polymerization; Emulsion polymerization; Molecular weight; Monomers; Nanostructure; Polymers; RAFT polymerization; Review; Self-assembly; Solubilization; star polymers; Stimuli; synthesis; Terpolymers; Textiles; star polymers; synthesis; self-assembly; RAFT polymerization; ABC triblock terpolymers
• ISSN: 2073-4360; 2073-4360
• DOI: 10.3390/polym13111698

This review article aims to cover the most recent advances regarding the synthesis of linear ABC-type triblock terpolymers and star-shaped polymers by RAFT polymerization, as well as their self-assembly properties in aqueous solutions. RAFT polymerization has received extensive attention, as it is a versatile technique, compatible with a great variety of functional monomers and reaction conditions, while providing exceptional and precise control over the final structure, with well-defined side-groups and post-polymerization engineering potential. Linear triblock terpolymers synthesis can lead to very interesting novel ideas, since there are countless combinations of stimuli/non-stimuli and hydrophilic/hydrophobic monomers that someone can use. One of their most interesting features is their ubiquitous ability to self-assemble in different nanostructures depending on their degree of polymerization (DP), block composition, solubilization protocol, internal and external stimuli. On the other hand, star-shaped polymers exhibit a more stable nanostructure, with a distinct crosslinked core and arm blocks that can also incorporate stimuli-responsive blocks for "smart" applications.