Micelles and networks formed by symmetric triblock copolymers in dilute solutions that are poor solvents for the terminal blocks

Summary A simulation for symmetric triblock copolymers in dilute solution shows a rich variety of structures when the solvent produces a net attractive interaction between the terminal blocks. Depending on the strength of this interaction, the system can form transitory aggregates, large independent micelles, or branched structures in which bridging soluble internal blocks connect dense particles formed by the aggregation of insoluble terminal blocks. The formation of the branched structure with the ABA triblock copolymer can be seen under conditions where the corresponding AB diblock copolymer would provide steric stabilization for a polymer colloid.