PEG based amphiphilic copolymers: From self-folding in solution to self-assembly at the film surface

Elisa Martinelli

Abstract

Amphiphilic polymers possess multimode capacities of self-assembly on nano-to-micrometer length scales when present in a variety of states, e.g., from dilute solution to thin film. Amphiphilic random copolymers can self-fold in water in single-chain nanoassemblies, so-called unimer micelles, via the intramolecular interactions of the hydrophobic component. We present and discuss different amphiphilic (co)polymer structures all based on the hydrophilic, thermoresponsive polyoxyethylene glycol (PEG) and highlight the effects of the polymer structure and composition on the size and morphology of the nanoassemblies in solution below and above the critical solution temperature. On the other hand, novel green technologies incorporate amphiphilic polymers into nanostructured-surface films to affect their properties. We point out how the surface activity, functionality, structure and reconstruction of the tailored amphiphilic polymer platform can interplay and add synergistically to combat the adhesion and settlement of a variety of biofouling organisms