Polymerization of an elaidic acid Langmuir film prepared on a terbium-containing subphase

The UV-induced polymerization of an elaidic acid Langmuir film prepared on a terbium-containing subphase has been studied. The polymerization caused c hanges in pressure/area isotherms. The irradiated film in its more condense d state is in a liquid phase while the monomer film is in a solid phase. Th e dynamics of the irradiated films was investigated by following the evolut ion of the film area at a constant pressure. For the longer irradiation tim es, an expansion of the film area was observed. Scanning force microscopy a nd IR spectroscopy have been used to study the monolayer after its transfer onto a solid support. IR spectroscopic measurements indicated the presence of an oxygen-containing copolymer. Scanning force microscopy images reveal ed a modification of the structure of the film after irradiation. (C) 1999 Academic Press.