Bicontinuous cubic (Q) lyotropic liquid crystal (LLC) phases formed by the self-organization of amphiphiles in water are intriguing structures for transport applications because they possess ordered, 3D-interconnected water nanochannels. Q-phase polymer materials can be formed by templated polymerization of conventional monomers around Q phases or direct polymerization of Q phases formed by reactive amphiphiles. Herein, we provide an overview of work in these areas, with a focus on our group’s work on polymers prepared by the direct cross-linking of reactive Q phases and their development into functional materials.
- Brian R Wiesenauer
- Douglas L Gin
