Coordinator/Contact person: Cor. Member Christo Tsvetanov DSc Tel: +359 2 9792261 e-mail:
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Funded by: NSFB Grant agreement: X 1511 Duration: 2006 - 2009
Abstract: The objectives are directed towards synthesis of di- and multiblock copolymers for preparation of polymeric nanocontainers with well-defined dimensions, morphology, phase purity, and chemical composition. The block copolymers will be composed of at least two chemically heterogeneous blocks such as polystyrene, poly(ethylene glycol), polybutadiene, etc. By varying the block types, the ratio between the blocks, and the composition of the mixed solvents, the ability of a large number of block copolymers to self-associate in selective solvents will be investigated. The nanostructured materials thus formed will be subsequently treated aiming at (i) stabilizing the latter against dissociation and (ii) decomposing the aggregate core and forming hollow structures. The hollow structures will be loaded with model substances to test the ability of the former to serve as, e.g., drug delivery materials, precursors for preparation of nanowires, nanostrucutred materials for transport of molecules and ions. NMR spectroscopy, gel-permeation chromatography, UV-vis spectroscopy, turbidimetry, light scattering, rheometry, and viscometry will be used to characterize the copolymers and the nanostructured materials. Expected results include controlled synthesis of hollow spherical and tubular nanoparticles with varying functionality and stimuli-sensitive shells, which could be useful for preparation of novel one-dimensional nanostructures, nanowires and drug delivery materials.