Inam, Maria (2018) Morphological control in the solution crystallisation of polymeric nanoparticles. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

Chapter One gives a broad introduction to the research described herein, initially discussing the reasons for morphology control, polymerisation techniques and self- assembly methods. A general introduction to solution crystallisation of polymers is given, with a focus on block copolymers with a crystalline core-forming block.

Chapter Two discusses the use of various poly(L-lactide) based amphiphiles to propose a unimer solubility-based shape selectivity mechanism for the formation of 1D and 2D nanostructures, leading to a single component solution phase protocol for the preparation of uniform diamond-shaped platelets.

Chapter Three considers the use of three different morphologies, namely spheres, cylinders and platelets, as nanocomposites in calcium alginate hydrogels, where a greater shear strength is measured for platelet-composite hydrogels.

Chapter Four utilises the proposed unimer solubility approach to create 2D diamond-shaped platelets of controlled size and shape. The use of different size platelets as water-in-water Pickering emulsifiers is explored, where larger plates are shown to give more stable emulsions.

Chapter Five employs the use of a poly(ɛ-caprolactone) crystallisable core-forming block for the preparation of 1D cylindrical structures of controlled length and dispersity. Direct epitaxial growth in water is shown, leading to the preparation of strong hydrogel materials.

Chapter Six summarises the research presented, giving general conclusions as well as discussing the scope for future investigations in this area of research.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	Q Science > QD Chemistry
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Nanoparticles, Polymerization, Polymers, Colloids
Official Date:	January 2018
Dates:	Date Event January 2018 UNSPECIFIED
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Chemistry
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	O'Reilly, Rachel K.
Sponsors:	Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Extent:	332 leaves : illustrations, charts
Language:	eng

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