Process-directed self-assembly refers to processes that reproducibly trap the kinetics of structure formation that ensues after a sudden change (“quench”) of the thermodynamic state into a desired, (meta)stable target state [1]. In this context, the short-time kinetics of structure evolution is important because it templates the morphology at later stages, but it poses challenges for a theoretical description in terms of continuum models.<br/><br/>a) Examining simple, prototypical examples, we highlight the importance of subdiffusive single-chain dynamics for the relaxation of collective density fluctuations. Strategies, how dynamic self-consistent field theory (SCFT) can be generalized to account for the short-time single-chain dynamics will be discussed [2,3], using the example of the stitch morphology [3] (see image).<br/><br/>b) SCFT assumes that the chain conformations are in instantaneous equilibrium with the density field, i.e., the density is the only slow variable. Strategies for adding slow order parameters that describe the large-scale polymer conformations in the framework of SCFT will be discussed and exemplified by the slow relaxation of loops and bridges in multiblock copolymers [4].

Do we understand the early stages of self-assembly in copolymer materials?

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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