Journal Article

FZJ-2017-04243

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Solvent Induced Inversion of Core-Shell Microgels

Ghavami, A. ; Winkler, R. G. (Corresponding author)FZJ*

2017
ACS Washington, DC

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Please use a persistent id in citations: http://hdl.handle.net/2128/22862  doi:10.1021/acsmacrolett.7b00318

Abstract: The morphology of core–shell microgels under different swelling conditions and as a function of the core–shell thickness ratio is systematically characterized by mesoscale hydrodynamic simulations. With increasing hydrophobic interaction of the shell polymers, we observe drastic morphological changes from a core–shell structure to an inverted microgel, where the core is turned to the outside, or a microgel with a patchy surface of core polymers directly exposed to the environment. We establish a phase diagram of the various morphologies. Moreover, we characterize the polymer and microgel conformations. For sufficiently thick shells, the changes of the shell size upon increasing hydrophobic interactions are well described by the Flory–Rehner theory. Additionally, this theory provides a critical line in the phase diagram separating core–shell structures from the distinct two other phases. The appearing new phases provide a novel route to nano- and microscale functionalized materials.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Theorie der Weichen Materie und Biophysik (IAS-2)

Research Program(s):

1. 551 - Functional Macromolecules and Complexes (POF3-551) (POF3-551)

Appears in the scientific report 2017

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Database coverage:
; ; Current Contents - Physical, Chemical and Earth Sciences ; IF >= 5 ; JCR ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Thomson Reuters Master Journal List ; Web of Science Core Collection

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