Self-adaptive behavior of mixed polymer brushes has been in the focus of intensive research during the last twelve years. In the classic design, the spontaneous switch of the brush properties occurs when one of the polymers swells up in a selective solvent and occupies the upper stratum of the brush while the counterpart polymer shrinks down. Here we aim to control the switching using an external (or remote) stimulus. In our design we introduce disulfide bonds to the polymer chains forming the brush. Either one or both polymers are cross-linked thus preventing spontaneous reconstruction. However, in the presence of a reducing agent the disulfide bonds are dissociated to the corresponding thiols and the switching is triggered. Such triggered adaptive behavior may open countless possibilities to design novel responsive materials and surfaces.

Polymer brushes with triggered response

245th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.