Preparation and control of functional nano-objects: Spheres, rods and rings based on hybrid materials

This paper reports on a simple route to fabricate functional nano-objects via self-assembly of hybrid materials based on a diblock copolymer. In water–toluene mixtures, spheres, rod- and ring-like structures of metal loaded block copolymer micelles are fabricated. The binary solvent blends are modified to gain control over the formation of micellar morphologies. A mechanism leading to the formation of such aggregates is presented using a force balance approach. It is demonstrated that swelling of the micelle core due to the water content is the driving force that induces transitions of morphology. Based on various control experiments the effect of inorganic precursor and stoichiometric water contents on the micelle morphology is described.