The phase behavior of small-molecule amphiphiles in solution and well-defined block copolymers in the strong segregation limit is strikingly similar. However, a unified molecular-based understanding of this phenomenon is not well developed. Since constraints defined by the molecular architecture dramatically influence phase behavior, a molecular-based description of ordered fluid microstructures is clearly required. The research is intended to further the understanding of the crucial molecular parameters that govern condensed-phase microstructure. This involves the design, synthesis, and characterization of two new families of macromolecular architectures. These architectures will be constructed by covalently linking stiff-dendritic macromolecules with linear flexible chains. The design of these architectures relies upon considerations taken from both small- molecule amphiphiles and block copolymers. One of the unique features is that the architectures incorporate a stiff-dendritic segment whose geometry is precisely defined. The insight gained from these studies will enhance the discovery of new polymeric materials with bicontinuous phases. Since bicontinuous phases have potential for controlling transport phenomena, the research also has technological significance.
