We use a molecular theory to study the interplay between hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions of amphiphilic polymers grafted on the inner surface of synthetic nanopores. Our theory demonstrates that sequence-designed copolymers can serve as multi-functional gate in response to multiple external stimuli, with potential applications in nanofluidics and biosensors. Our theory predicts a sharp morphological transition and a discontinuous charge regulation of the confined copolymer that reflect a spontaneous global reconfiguration of the system to balance hydrophobic interaction, electrostatic interaction and protonation reaction. Our results highlight the importance of polymer sequence in nanogating and these theoretical insights can be used to guide the rational design of polymer-coated smart nanopores.

How are hydrophobic and pH-responsive polymers functioning in nanochannels?

254th National Meeting (2017)

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