Title: Stimuli-Responsive, Shape-Transforming Nanostructured Particles

Author: Junhyuk Lee, Kang Hee Ku, Mingoo Kim, Jae Man Shin, Junghun Han, Chan Ho Park, Gi-Ra Yi, Se Gyu Jang, Bumjoon J. Kim* 

Journal: Advanced Materials, 2017, Vol.29, 1700608

Abstract

Dynamic, temperature-driven transformation of the shape and morphology of polymer particles is demonstrated using polystyrene-b-poly(4-vinylpyridine) block copolymers (BCPs) and temperature-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) surfactants. The temperature-directed positioning of PNIPAM, depending on its solubility, determines both the shape and morphology of the BCP particles, suggesting great promise of these particles for use in sensing, smart coatings, and drug delivery applications.