Spherical nano-shells of block copolymers

Using cell dynamics simulation we investigate morphologies block copolymers confined in a spherical shell. The shell is formed by coating of a colloidal particle with a block copolymer thin film. We examine the influence of molecular composition, thickness of the film, curvature of the shell on the nano- structure of the shell. Several block copolymer morphologies are investigated: bulk lamellae, cylinders, spheres and bicontinuous. Deviation from the bulk structure develops under influence of confinement between curved surfaces. The curvature influences the defect density in the formed structure.