Reversible metallo-supramolecular block copolymer micelles containing a soft core

Abstract

An amphiphilic metallo-supramolecular poly(ethylene-co-butylene)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) diblock copolymer containing a bis(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine)ruthenium(II) complex as a supramolecular connection between the two constituting blocks was used to prepare stable aqueous micelles. The micelles were characterized by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy. Individual micelles were observed together with aggregates of micelles. Only the addition of a large excess of competitive ligand caused the cleavage of the very stable ruthenium complex. Schematic illustration of PEB70-[Ru]-PEO70 aqueous micelles in water and after the addition of a large excess of competitive ligand.