Synthesis of Linear ABC Triblock Copolymers and Their Self-Assembly in Solution

The self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers has attracted the interest of a large number of research groups in the past two decades. Many examples have been reported using AB diblock copolymers, but the self-assembly becomes more complex and shows a greater variety if ABC triblock copolymers are used. However, the synthesis of the polymer becomes more demanding since end-group modifications or chain extensions become necessary. Using various kinds of polymerization techniques, pure triblock copolymers have been reported and their synthesis is covered in this review. Following the synthesis, a detailed and thorough analysis of the self-assembly behaviour is the next step. We have selected promising and well characterized examples to show the range of self-assembled structures possible, covering novel shapes of micelles but also polymersomes with an asymmetric membrane. Our selection of current examples in literature show the challenges and chances associated with amphiphilic ABC triblock copolymers.