Block Copolymers : Phase Morphology, Material Applications & Future Challenges

Block copolymers constitute a fascinating group of polymeric materials belonging to the "soft matter" family. These materials are formed by blocks of polymeric chains from different monomers. In most cases, these blocks are thermodynamically incompatible, but the covalent bonds between them impose specific arrangements, generating particular morphologies both in bulk and in solution. In this book, the authors present current research in the study of the phase morphology, material applications and future challenges of block copolymers. Topics discussed include the different experimental skills developed to synthesise model block copolymers; the macromolecular design of stereo block polylactides showing high performance; ion-containing block copolymers and their applications; self-assembled block copolymers for the preparation of advanced materials; the electrical properties of polythylene-b-polyethylene oxide diblock copolymers; and triblock copolymers as tougheners for PMMA matrices.