Thermoresponsive Modular Nano-Objects Via RAFT Dispersion Polymerization in a Non-Polar Solvent

Thermoresponsive polymer nano-objects able to dynamically change their morphology in response modifications the local temperature are finding growing attention for biomedical, optical, and oil & gas applications. This smart behavior can be accessed by precisely controlling microstructure of AB block copolymers, which obtained leveraging pseudoliving character reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Most examples reporting synthesis highly controlled thermoresponsive via RAFT dispersion polymerization currently refer aqueous systems. However, possibility synthesizing copolymers with a well-defined phase separation bulk organic solvents is becoming more critical applications field lubricants heat engines. In this study, we propose convenient strategy modular self-assembling into different morphologies hydrocarbon blend dectol (50:50% v/v decane/toluene). Two macromolecular agents (macroCTAs) degree were synthesized from lauryl methacrylate. The extension these macroCTAs di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate led forming, when lowered below cloud point, whose could modulating solid content formulation length both blocks copolymer. We also revealed how phase-separation influenced same parameters, allowing us tune material needs final application.