Supramolecular materials via block copolymer self-assembly

This review discusses the potential of block copolymer type macromolecular building blocks for the preparation of self-assembled materials. Three diff erent classes of block copolymer type architectures will be distinguished; i) coil-coil diblock copolymers, ii) rod-coil diblock copolymers, and iii) rod-coil diblock oligomers. The basic principles that underlie the self-ass embly of each of these different building blocks will be discussed. These t heoretical considerations are complemented with examples from recent litera ture that illustrate the potential of the different types of block copolyme rs to prepare (functional) supramolecular materials. Finally, several strat egies will be presented that could allow the preparation of stimuli-sensiti ve self-assembled materials, i.e., materials whose properties can be revers ibly manipulated under the action of appropriate external stimuli.