Block copolymers and liquid crystalline block copolymers: A bird's-eye view

Block copolymers and liquid crystals are separately known to order at different length scales. Various types of molecular interactions in liquid crystalline block copolymers determine complex phase behaviors and states of order, and thereby can provide a way of tailoring the material properties. Examples of liquid crystalline block copolymers will be discussed as they may offer unique opportunities for both theoretical and experimental research.