Physics – Condensed Matter – Soft Condensed Matter
Scientific paper
2008-05-19
J. Chem. Phys., 126, 214902 (2007)
Physics
Condensed Matter
Soft Condensed Matter
Scientific paper
10.1063/1.2737049
We present a generalized theory of microphase separation for charged-neutral diblock copolymer melt. Stability limit of the disordered phase for salt-free melt has been calculated using Random Phase Approximation (RPA) and self-consistent field theory (SCFT). Explicit analytical free energy expressions for different classical ordered microstructures (lamellar, cylinder and sphere) are presented. We demonstrate that chemical mismatch required for the onset of microphase separation ($\chi^{\star} N$) in charged-neutral diblock melt is higher and the period of ordered microstructures is lower than those for the corresponding neutral-neutral diblock system. Theoretical predictions on the period of ordered structures in terms of Coulomb electrostatic interaction strength, chain length, block length, and the chemical mismatch between blocks are presented. SCFT has been used to go beyond the stability limit, where electrostatic potential and charge distribution are calculated self-consistently. Stability limits calculated using RPA are in perfect agreement with the corresponding SCFT calculations. Limiting laws for stability limit and the period of ordered structures are presented and comparisons are made with an earlier theory. Also, transition boundaries between different morphologies have been investigated.
Kumar Rajeev
Muthukumar Murugappan
No associations
LandOfFree
Microphase separation in polyelectrolytic diblock copolymer melt : weak segregation limit 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 Microphase separation in polyelectrolytic diblock copolymer melt : weak segregation limit, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Microphase separation in polyelectrolytic diblock copolymer melt : weak segregation limit will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-299480