The ability of block polymers to self-assemble into exquisite nanostructures has inspired a large body of research. Tremendous progress has been made in understanding the phase behavior of block polymer systems, and developing predictive tools in order to relate molecular variables to the resulting nanostructure. Concurrently, advances in the scope and simplicity of controlled polymerization have created the opportunity to prepare virtually any desired block polymer in a straightforward manner. Nevertheless, in current industrial practice virtually no applications of block polymers take advantage of any particular nanostructure, and most applications are commodity-based (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers). Thus, a grand challenge in this field is to develop functional nanostructures that can actually be used for value-added products. This symposium will bring together experts who are designing practical systems for a wide range of emerging technologies. Examples include: stimuli responsive micelles and gels, especially for therapeutics; patterned films for nanolithography; templates for nanoporous materials, leading to membrane, separation, and catalysis applications; optoelectronic block polymers for sensing, displays, photovoltaics, and photonics. |
