https://phys.org/news/2024-01-scientist ... lymer.html
by Pohang University of Science and Technology
Plumber's nightmare structure presents itself as an assemblage where all exits seem to converge inward—a plumber's nightmare but an anticipated uniqueness for researchers, suggesting distinctive traits divergent from traditional materials. Nonetheless, this intricate configuration was deemed unattainable, bordering on the realm of the impossible.
Recently, a research team at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) unearthed clues from neglected minuscule ends, transforming this dream into reality. The journal Science not only published this research but also spotlighted it as an article, sparking considerable interest within academic circles.
Professor Moon Jeong Park and Ph.D. candidate Hojun Lee from POSTECH's Department of Chemistry brought to life nanostructures of block copolymers (BCPs), which were previously only envisioned.
BCPs represent polymers constructed by linking blocks of one monomer with blocks of another. Capable of self-assembly, BCPs craft diverse nanoscale structures, finding widespread applications across fields covering semiconductor and medicine.
Recent studies have been vigorously exploring comparisons in optical and mechanical properties based on BCP structure. However, as structures grow more intricate, their thermodynamic stability diminishes, posing considerable challenges in their production.
Among these structures, the plumber's nightmare, exhibiting medial packing of polymer chain ends, stands as an immensely complex and distinctive formation. While real-life instances of its manifestation were absent, it was hypothesized to possess unique optical and mechanical traits due to its distinctive channel structure, setting it apart from other nanostructures.