Liquid State Theory of Equilibrium Structure and Thermodynamics of Block Copolymer Melts and Solutions

A liquid state integral equation theory has been developed to study the thermodynamics and structures of fluids of multiblock polymers both with nonpolar and strongly attracting groups. The physical clustering/aggregation process is probed via the calculation of small and wide angle scattering patterns, real space intermolecular radial distribution functions, and length-scale dependent effective compositions. The dependence of such properties on multiblock architecture, backbone stiffness, composition and block length, relative size of neutral and sticky groups, degree of polymerization, temperature, and solvent (neutral or selective) volume fraction has been investigated via model calculations. Exceptionally sensitive dependence of collective structural properties related to microphase separation on polymer concentration, temperature, and other controllable variable is found. Qualitative and semi-quantitative comparisons with small angle x-ray and neutron scattering experiments on telechelic and multiblock copolymers has also been made.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Chemistry

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2015

Author dc:creator

• Kolbet, Kathleen Ann

Contributors dc:contributor

• Schweizer, Kenneth S.

• Chemistry, Physical

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

(MiAaPQ)AAI9953065

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/84457