Min Liu, Jacob R. Blankenship, Adam E. Levi, Qiang Fu*, Zachary M. Hudson*, and Christopher M. Bates*

Chem. Mater. 2022, 34, 14, 6188–6209

Publication Date: July 11, 2022

https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemmater.2c01220

PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Polymers with precisely controlled structure and function are in high demand across a diverse array of applications spanning the life sciences and nanotechnology. One prototypical example is a class of branched block copolymers known as miktoarm stars (μ-stars), which contain two or more arm compositions connected at a common junction. Miktoarm stars have attracted considerable attention since their physical properties can be different from conventional linear block copolymers. This perspective highlights the latest developments and historical context in the field of miktoarm star polymers, including design strategies, synthetic techniques, and advanced characterization tools used to avoid common preparation pitfalls and tailor properties for emerging applications. Our contemporary perspective on μ-star polymers is a resource for inspiring future research into this exciting class of materials at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and advanced technology.

SUBJECTS:

• Polymers,

• 
  

• 
  

• 
  

• RAFT polymerization,

• Radical polymerization,

• Ring-opening polymerization,

• Star polymers