Switching between Polymer Architectures with Distinct Thermoresponses

Thermoresponsive linear polymers and their corresponding aggregates or nanogels typically show similar thermoresponsive profiles. In this study, the authors demonstrate reversible chemical switching between linear polymers and their cross-linked nanogels. The linear polymers exhibit sharp thermal transitions typical of common thermoresponsive polymers but the cross-linked nanogels exhibit "linear" thermal transitions over a relatively broad temperature range. The reversible switching between these two different polymer architectures with distinct thermoresponses represents a unique example of how the responsive properties of smart polymers can be significantly manipulated via polymer architecture engineering.