Fluorescence is a useful tool for determining the solution properties of many macromolecular systems. Use of a free solvated, or covalently bround, aromatic probe can reveal a broad range of information about polymer solution properties, additionally so if two probes are used (allowing for the possibility of Forster Resonance Energy Transfer meaurements).<br/><br/>It is particularly useful when studying the conformational response of synthetic polymer systems which can have broad dispersities in both molar mass and architecture. In these systems there are a range of distances between donor and acceptors that can be statistically modelled to give a mean seperation - providing an additional layer of challenge interpreting FRET data to give us accurate information about the polymeric system. However using a range of techniques, from standard photoluminescence spectroscopy and excited state lifetime quenching, important advances in our understanding of stimuli responsive polymer properties can be achieved.<br/><br/>Here we relay recent published advances in pH and thermally responsive polymer systems. Our understanding of a simple pH bound response of poly(acrylic acid) to its environemnt however recent fluorescence studies have demonstrated important conceptual understandings previously undisclosed by conventional polymer analysis. Using solvatochromic dyes spatial polarity measurements of desolvated polymer globules can be carried out, allowing for more intelligent polymer design in future.

Fluorescence measurement of macromolecules with broad dispersities

2019 Fall National Meeting

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