Synthesis, self-assembly and photo-responsive behavior of AB2 shaped amphiphilic azo block copolymer

In this work, we report the synthesis of AB2 shaped amphiphilic azo block copolymer by macromolecular azo coupling reaction. The product and intermediates were characterized by various methods. The self-assembly in selected solvents and photo-responsive behavior of the copolymer were studied by means of UV–vis spectrophotometry and TEM. Spherical aggregates can be obtained by gradually adding water into the solution of this amphiphilic azo block copolymer. Upon irradiation with polarized UV (365 nm) light, the aggregates can be elongated in the polarized direction.

AB2 shaped amphiphilic azo block copolymer was synthesized. The self-assembly aggregates formed from this copolymer can be elongated upon irradiation with polarized UV light.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide