Disordered Inverse Photonic Beads Assembled From Linear Block Copolymers.

Structurally colored colloids, or photonic pigments, offer a sustainable alternative to conventional dyes, yet existing systems are constrained by limited morphologies and complex synthesis. In particular, achieving angle-independent color typically relies on disordered inverse architectures formed from synthetically demanding bottlebrush block copolymers (BCPs), hindering scalability and functional diversity. Here, we report a conceptually distinct strategy to assemble three-dimensional inverse photonic glass microparticles using amphiphilic linear BCPs (poly(styrene-block-4-vinylpyridine), PS-b-P4VP) via an emulsion-templated process.

Programmable Photonic Response in pH-Responsive Block Copolymer Colloids.

Three-dimensionally ordered photonic colloids offer a unique opportunity to directly correlate internal nanoscale morphology with the macroscale optical response. Herein, we present pH-responsive poly(styrene--2-vinylpyridine) (PS--P2VP) colloids with stacked lamellar architecture that exhibit tunable structural color through controlled swelling dynamics. Cross-linking P2VP domains using 1,8-dibromooctane increases initial domain spacing, shifting color from violet to blue-green, while simultaneously restricting acid-induced swelling and red shift.

Bifunctional additive-driven shape transitions of block copolymer particles through synergistic quaternization and protonation.

Block copolymer (BCP) particles with tailored shapes and nanostructures hold promise for applications in cell adhesion, photonic system, and energy storage due to their unique optical and rheological properties. Conventional approaches relying on surfactant-mediated self-assembly often limit particle geometries to simple structures. Herein, we present a versatile approach to expand the morphology of poly(styrene--2-vinylpyridine) (PS--P2VP) BCP particles through the incorporation of 9-bromononanoic acid (BNA), a bifunctional additive that facilitates synergistic quaternization and protonation.

Dynamic Photonic Janus Colloids with Axially Stacked Structural Layers.

Diblock copolymer (dBCP) particles capable of dynamic shape and color changes have gained significant attention due to their versatility in programmable shapes and intricate nanostructures. However, their application in photonic systems remains limited due to challenges in achieving a sufficient number of defect-free photonic layers over a tens-of-micrometer scale. In this study, we present a pioneering demonstration of photonic dBCP particles featuring over 300 axially stacked photonic layers with responsive color- and shape-transforming capabilities.