Core phosphine-functionalized amphiphilic nanogels as catalytic nanoreactors for aqueous biphasic hydroformylation

•New micellar nanoreactor with fully cross-linked TPP-functionalized core.•Efficient macroligand for aqueous biphasic hydroformylation of 1-octene.•Lowered rhodium leaching by embedding phosphine moieties in cross-linked network.•Scaffold stiffening impeding core-core interaction and particle agglomeration.•Catalytic activity mainly affected by polymer functionalization degree.