Abstract
(Figure Presented) Spring-loaded polymers: The nanohelical structure of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) in the polystyrene (PS) matrix of chiral PS-PLLA block copolymers displays springlike behavior in response to an applied stimulus. The self-assembled nanohelices are transformed into cylinders by crystallization or shearing (see picture). This thermally reversible phase behavior may be used for manipulating switchable nanohelical structures. © 2005 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.