Stabilize Various Novel Network Structures via the Alternate Arrangement of A/C Domains in Close Contact by Tailoring ABC Miktoarm Star Architectures
Luyang Li, Qingshu Dong, Weihua Li
Abstract
Triply periodic network (TPN) structures are promising in many applications. The self-assembly of block copolymers provides a versatile bottom-up method for the fabrication of TPN network structures. One of the TPN structures, the double-gyroid structure, is commonly formed by pure block copolymers, but the others are relatively rare. In this work, we propose a strategy to generate diverse TPN structures via the self-assembly of ABC-type miktoarm star copolymers with ingeniously tailored architectures. These networks are composed of alternately arranged A and C domains; those are hierarchical networks. By constructing the phase diagrams with respect to the controlling architectural parameters of the terpolymers using self-consistent field theory (SCFT), we predict eight stable network structures, covering double-gyroid, single-gyroid, single-diamond, single-primitive, and Fddd ( O 70 ) categories. These hierarchical network structures are stabilized through controlling the dimensions of the A and C domains as well as the interspace between the networks. Acting as mesoatoms, the A and C domains fit together to form cohesive networks along with matched B blocks to fill the interspace.