This research capitalizes on the robust nature of reversible bond formation between diols and boronic acids for the preparation and investigation of self-assembled and responsive macromolecular material. Two particular systems will be investigated: (1)stimuli-responsive block copolymer assemblies and (2)dynamic covalent self-assembled materials. In the first system, diblock copolymers with a permanently hydrophilic block (e.g.,poly(ethylene glycol) or polyacrylamide) and a responsibe boronic acid containing acrylamido or styrenic block will be prepared by combination of controlled radical polymerization and other efficient postpolymerization transformations. In the absence of diol and at pH NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: By preparing nanoscale objects that undergo rupture and reconstruction when exposed to changes in their local environment, fundamental insight can be gained into many of the mechanisms governing the controlled delivery of therapeutics and the behavior of new self-healing and adaptive materials. Because these studies require a diverse set of skills from materials science, chemistry, and engineering, students and junior scientists involved in this research are provided with a truly interdisciplinary set of skills that can enhance the workforce necessary to accelerate development of new advanced and sepciality materials market. An outreach component of the research is desinged to directly address many of the mandates of the American Competitiveness Initiative by establishing collaborations with local community colleges and independent K-12 school districts to facilitate the inclusion of underrepresented minority students for internship positions within the Department of Chemistry at Southern Methodist University.
