Micellisation vs aggregation in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers

Details Micellisation vs aggregation in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers Micellisation vs aggregation in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers

2001-03-05

arxiv.org/abs/cond-mat/0103103v1

Physics

Condensed Matter

Soft Condensed Matter

RevTeX, 4 pages, 7 PS figures. Accepted for publication in Colloids and Surfaces A

Scientific paper

In recent experiments involving PNIPAM copolymers it has been observed that stable spherical nanoparticles are being formed by association of several chains in poor aqueous solution instead of aggregation. This type of mesoscopic structures called mesoglobules has an extremely monodispersed size distribution. Previously we have studied theoretically formation of clusters consisting of several chains in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers. We have seen that the mesoglobules often possess an essentially micellar structure. In the current work we argue that formation of mesoglobules is strongly sequence and concentration dependent. In particular, by means of lattice Monte Carlo simulation we consider structures formed by a number of tri-block sequences and their certain mutations. For sequences consisting of two hydrophilic ends with a hydrophobic middle the size distribution of the resulting particles is rather narrow, i.e. mesoglobules are being formed. However, in the case of sequences with two hydrophobic ends and a hydrophilic middle a new type of structures seems to be prevalent. These consist of small mesoglobules interconnected by hydrophilic bridges. Clearly, on increasing the concentration these networked structures would play an important role resulting in a rapid onset of a gel-like behaviour.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Micellisation vs aggregation in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Micellisation vs aggregation in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Micellisation vs aggregation in dilute solutions of amphiphilic heteropolymers will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-22135