Journal Article

PUBDB-2025-01380

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png pH and Temperature Dependence of Low‐Core $T_g$ Micellar Structures Formed by PDMAEMA ‐ b ‐ PLMA Diblock Copolymers in Aqueous Solution

Chrysostomou, V. ; Da Vela, S.EMBL* ; Pispas, S. (Corresponding author) ; Papadakis, C. M. (Corresponding author)Extern*

2025
Wiley Hoboken, NJ

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1002/pol.20241120  doi:10.3204/PUBDB-2025-01380

Abstract: A diblock copolymer featuring a hydrophobic block with a low glass transition temperature and a pH-responsive, cationic block is synthesized and investigated with respect to its self-assembly behavior in aqueous solution. The synthesis of the poly(lauryl methacrylate)-block-poly(2-(N,N-dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate) diblock copolymer PDMAEMA$_{60}$-b-PLMA$_{40}$ is carried out using reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Its self-assembly in dilute aqueous solution at pH 7 is investigated using various light scattering methods. Micelles with a positive zeta potential are identified. Synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering reveals changes in the inner structure of the micelles as a function of temperature and at pH values above, below and close to the pKa value of PDMAEMA (ca. 7.5). At all pH values, cigar-shaped core–shell micelles are found. While the micellar size and shape hardly change with temperature at pH 5, temperature responsivity is observed at pH 7 and 10, resulting in, among others, a change of the core size. These structural changes are facilitated by the softness of the PLMA core. Such systems may be suitable for the co-delivery of hydrophobic drugs and nucleic acids.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. EMBL (EMBL)
2. EMBL-User (EMBL-User)

Research Program(s):

1. 6G3 - PETRA III (DESY) (POF4-6G3) (POF4-6G3)
2. SINE2020 - World class Science and Innovation with Neutrons in Europe 2020 – SINE2020 (654000) (654000)

Experiment(s):

1. PETRA Beamline P12 (PETRA III)

Appears in the scientific report 2025

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Database coverage:
; ; ; Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List ; Current Contents - Physical, Chemical and Earth Sciences ; DEAL Wiley ; Essential Science Indicators ; IF < 5 ; JCR ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Web of Science Core Collection

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