Polymer Brush in a Nanopore: Effects of Solvent Strength and Macromolecular Architecture Studied by Self-Consistent Field and Scaling Theory

oleh: Mikhail Y. Laktionov, Ekaterina B. Zhulina, Ralf P. Richter, Oleg V. Borisov

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2021-11-01

Deskripsi

To study conformational transition occuring upon inferior solvent strength in a brush formed by linear or dendritically branched macromolecules tethered to the inner surface of cylindrical or planar (slit-like) pore, a self-consistent field analytical approach is employed. Variations in the internal brush structure as a function of variable solvent strength and pore radius, and the onset of formation of a hollow channel in the pore center are analysed. The predictions of analytical theory are supported and complemented by numerical modelling by a self-consistent field Scheutjens–Fleer method. Scaling arguments are used to study microphase segregation under poor solvent conditions leading to formation of a laterally and longitudinally patterned structure in planar and cylindrical pores, respectively, and the effects of confinement on "octopus-like" clusters in the pores of different geometries.