THEORY OF POLYMER-CHAINS TETHERED AT INTERFACES

Using self-consistent field calculations and scaling analysis, we dete rmined the property of polymers that are tethered onto impenetrable, s olid surfaces or adsorbed onto penetrable interfaces. In the case of i mpenetrable solids, we consider homogeneous walls, as well as surfaces containing chemically distinct patterns. These findings provide guide lines for tailoring the morphology of the polymer layer and thereby co ntroling the interaction between polymer-coated surfaces. In particula r, we pinpoint routes for creating ordered arrays of polymer-coated co lloidal particles. The results also yield prescriptions for creating l aterally patterned polymer films, which are useful in device applicati ons. In the case of penetrable interfaces, we examine the adsorption o f polymers into layers of tethered chains. These studies yield design criteria for creating selective filtration and separation systems, and insight into how adsorbing chains interact with a soft, responsive su rface.