A kind of core cross-linked “semi-amphiphilic” polymer assemblies for controlled release of corrosion inhibitors and autonomous corrosion alarm

•A novel “semi-amphiphilic” block copolymer was designed via controlling the polarity difference between the blocks and epoxy.•The core cross-linked polymer assemblies were formed in epoxy by the dynamical cross-linking of the “semi-amphiphilic” block copolymer, which could be used directly in epoxy coatings to preload corrosion indicators and corrosion inhibitors.•The controlled release of corrosion inhibitors was fully reflected by the expansion of the capacitor ring and the increase of the coating resistance (Rc) with the extension of the immersion time.