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Real-time label-free imaging of living crystallization-driven self-assembly

Author

Listed:
  • Yujie Guo

    (King’s College London)

  • Tianlai Xia

    (University of Birmingham)

  • Vivien Walter

    (King’s College London)

  • Yujie Xie

    (University of Birmingham)

  • Julia Y. Rho

    (University of Birmingham)

  • Laihui Xiao

    (University of Birmingham)

  • Rachel K. O’Reilly

    (University of Birmingham)

  • Mark I. Wallace

    (King’s College London)

Abstract

Living crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA) of semicrystalline block copolymers is a powerful method for the bottom-up construction of uniform polymer microstructures with complex hierarchies. Improving our ability to engineer such complex particles demands a better understanding of how to precisely control the self-assembly process. Here, we apply interferometric scattering (iSCAT) microscopy to observe the real-time growth of individual poly(ε-caprolactone)-based fibers and platelets. This label-free method enables us to map the role of key reaction parameters on platelet growth rate, size, and morphology. Furthermore, iSCAT provides a contrast mechanism for studying multi-annulus platelets formed via the sequential addition of different unimers, offering insights into the spatial distribution of polymer compositions within a single platelet.

Suggested Citation

  • Yujie Guo & Tianlai Xia & Vivien Walter & Yujie Xie & Julia Y. Rho & Laihui Xiao & Rachel K. O’Reilly & Mark I. Wallace, 2025. "Real-time label-free imaging of living crystallization-driven self-assembly," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-57776-9
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57776-9
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