Janus Graft Block Copolymers: Design of a Polymer Architecture for Independently Tuned Nanostructures and Polymer Properties

The graft-through synthesis of Janus graft block copolymers (GBCPs) from branched macromonomers composed of various combinations of homopolymers is presented. Self-assembly of GBCPs resulted in ordered nanostructures with ultra-small domain sizes down to 2.8 nm (half-pitch). The grafted architecture introduces an additional parameter, the backbone length, which enables control over the thermomechanical properties and processability of the GBCPs independently of their self-assembled nanostructures. The simple synthetic route to GBCPs and the possibility of using a variety of polymer combinations contribute to the universality of this technique.