Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly (PISA) and “Host–Guest” Complexation-Directed Polymer/Gold Nanocomposites

Polymer and inorganic hybrid nanocomposites are of increasing interest for a wide variety of applications; however, the preparation of these nanocomposites often requires cumbersome procedures, especially for nanocomposites with diverse morphologies. Here, we demonstrate a facile strategy for fast preparation of polymer/gold nanocomposites through “host–guest” complexation between β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and adamantane (Ada). Synthesis of macro-RAFT agent contains β-CD moiety, followed by polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA), provides three types of β-CD decorated polymer nano-objects with distinguished morphologies. Subsequently, by incubating these polymer nano-objects with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that are modified with polymer ligands containing Ada moiety, we have successfully fabricated a series of different polymer/gold nanocomposites, including AuNPs decorated polymer vesicles, polymer sphere nano-flowers, polymer sphere nano-patterns, and polymer nano-worms. This strategy opens a gate for fast preparation of polymer-based nanocomposites with desired decorations. Nanoparticles with different morphologies and compositions, bio-macromolecules and drugs molecules, etc. are all potential decorations, leading to further diversified applications.