A simple method for creating self-assembled nanostructures using a single polymer system is reported. When spin-coated polystyrene thin films were irradiated with UV light and treated with toluene, unique nanostructures were observed, evolving from star-shaped networks to arrays of concentric circles. The nanostructure formation is a result of differential responses of crosslinked and oxidized products to the solvent by a combined effect of phase separation and solvent swelling. The nanostructures were observed for polymers of different molecular weights, films of different thicknesses, and on various substrates.
Revised: July 9, 2009 |
Published: August 27, 2008
Citation
Chada S., and M. Yan. 2008.Self-assembled nanostructures from homopolymer induced by UV and solvent exposure.Soft Matter 4. doi:10.1039/b807328g