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The effect of structural isomerism on block copolymer self-assembly

ORAL

Abstract

The impact of structural isomerism on the self-assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) is generally demonstrated. However, to date, the precise control over structural isomerism of BCPs (SI-BCPs) and a systematic investigation on its effect on thermodynamics have not been fully realized. Here we demonstrate a high throughput platform for a library of well-defined SI-BCPs with identical dispersity and molecular weight. The isomerism is precisely controlled by manipulating the number and position of fluorine atoms of one block. A significant difference in domain periodicities of SI-BCPs was observed. The Flory-Huggins interaction parameter was estimated using self-consistent mean-field theory. The chain conformation of SI-BCPs was measured using scattering techniques. Finally, we believe this systematic investigation of SI-BCPs may lead to a better understanding of the structure-property relationship of polymeric materials and broaden the scope for new polymeric materials.

Presenters

  • Hongbo Feng

    University of Chicago

Authors

  • Hongbo Feng

    University of Chicago

  • Whitney Loo

    University of Chicago

  • Wen Chen

    University of Chicago

  • Christopher Eom

    The University of Chicago

  • Ludwig Schneider

    Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, PME, University of Chicago

  • Authur Suits

    Princeton University, Aalto University, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Louisiana State University, University of South Florida, DBIO, Boston College, QCD Labs, Aalto University, DMP, Univeristy of Chicago, University of California, Berkeley, University of Delaware, University of Missouri

  • Paul Nealey

    University of Chicago