Morphology Transformation Pathway of Block Copolymer‐Directed Cooperative Self‐Assembly of ZnO Hybrid Films Monitored In Situ during Slot‐Die Coating

Cooperative self-assembly (co-assembly) of diblock copolymers (DBCs) and inorganic precursors that takes inspiration from the rich phase separation behavior DBCs can enable realization a broad spectrum functional nanostructures with desired sizes. In DBC assisted sol–gel chemistry approach polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene oxide) ZnO, hybrid films are formed slot-die coating. Pure printed as control. situ grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering measurements performed to investigate co-assembly process during film formation. Combining complementary ex characterizations, several distinct regimes differentiated describe morphological transformations initially solvent-dispersed ultimately solidified films. The comparison assembly pathway evidences key step in establishment pure is coalescence spherical micelles toward cylindrical domains. Due presence phase-selective precursor, formation aggregates solution crucial for structural development film. pre-existing cylinders ink impede domain growth subsequent drying process. precursor reduces degree order, prevents crystallization PEO block, introduces additional length scales