Decoding the Conformation of Polylactic Acid in Block Copolymer Micelles

Abstract

Understanding how molecular features dictate the self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers into well-defined nanostructures is essential for the rational design of advanced soft materials. However, the large number of interdependent parameters involved, such as particle size, aggregation number, interfacial curvature, and molecular weight, makes it challenging to establish general design principles. Here we establish a scaling-based framework for PEG-b-PLA micelles with a fixed hydrophilic−hydrophobic ratio. Systematic variation of molecular weights enables precise control of micelle size and aggregation number, quantified by DLS, cryo-TEM, and MALS.