A Novel Polyelectrolyte with Branched Azo Side Chains: Synthesis, Characterization and Self-Assembled Nano-structures

A Novel Polyelectrolyte with Branched Azo Side Chains: Synthesis, Characterization and Self-Assembled Nano-structures Summary A novel polyelectrolyte (PEAPB6P-AA) functionalized with branched azo side-chains has been synthesized. Aggregation of azo chromophores of PEAPB6P-AA in H2O-THF mixed solvent was detected from its influences on UV-Vis spectra and photoresponsive behaviors. Micelle-like nano-structures were found when the concentration of PEAPB6P-AA increased to above 0.2 mmol/L in the mixed solvent (VTHF: Vaqua=1:20). Multilayers of the micelle-like nanostructures and poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC) were fabricated by an electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly process. Particularly high wettability of the multilayer surfaces observed affirmed the self-assembled structure formed in the micelles