Crystallization-Driven Self Assembly of Thermoresponsive Conjugated Block Copolymers into Multifunctional Nanowire Networks

Abstract

Thermo-responsive block copolymers enable precise structural control via self-assembly, which is vital for advanced material development. In this study, I synthesized conjugated thermo-responsive block copolymers designed to form aligned nanowire arrays through crystallization-driven self-assembly. To enhance mechanical strength and electrical continuity, ABA-type triblock copolymers were introduced as physical cross- linkers. Tailored design of conjugated and LCST segments allowed reversible nanowire rearrangement under temperature changes. Moreover, NPs-containing polymers were employed, and in situ liquid-cell TEM was used to directly visualize thermally induced nano structural transitions in real time, confirming morphological changes. This work presents a novel strategy to fabricate multifunctional nanowire networks integrating conductivity, thermo- responsiveness, and durability, with promising potential in stretchable electronics, thermal sensors, and smart nanodevices.