DESIGNING OPTIMAL COMB COMPATIBILIZERS - AC AND BC COMBS AT AN A B INTERFACE/

We used a self-consistent mean field theory to determine the adsorptio n behavior of AC and BC comb copolymers at the interface between two i mmiscible homopolymers, A and B. The backbones of the AC combs are com posed of A monomers, and the side chains (teeth) are formed from C uni ts. In a similar manner, the BC combs have a B backbone and C teeth. T he C segments are themselves immiscible with both the A and B homopoly mers. Taking into account the effect of micelle formation, we calculat e the reduction in interfacial tension caused by the adsorption of the se combs at the A/B interface. At the interface, the combs form a ''bi layer'': the C teeth associate across the A/B boundary and the backbon es remain localized in the respective homopolymers. Our results show t hat for an optimal choice of comb architecture, the interfacial tensio n can be reduced to zero. Consequently, these combs constitute effecti ve compatibilizers and emulsifying agents.