We present a self-consistent field theory model for the self-assembly behavior of rod-coil block copolymers. The orientational interactions between the rods were modeled through a Maier-Saupe interaction, while the enthalpic interactions between rods and coils were modeled through a standard Flory-Huggins approach. We outline a "real-space" numerical approach to solve the self-consistent field ...

pH-responsive hydrogels are capable of converting chemical energy to mechanical work. To optimize their use as actuators, their response when operating against an external load must be fully characterized. Here, the actuation strain of a model pH-sensitive hydrogel as a function of different constant loads is studied. The experimental actuation strain, produced by switching the pH from 2 to 12,...

Some thermodynamic quantities were obtained for the interactions of poly [2-(3-mesityl-3-methylcyclobutyl)2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate] with alcohols, ketones, acetates, aromatics and alkanes by inverse gas chromatography in the temperature range 160-200◦C. The specific retention volumes, V ◦ g , weight fraction activity coefficients of solute probes at infinite dilution, Ω1 , Flory-Huggins ther...

A generalized self-consistent field approach for polymer networks with a fixed topology is developed. It is shown that the theory reproduces the localization of cross-links, which is characteristic for gels. The theory is then used to study the order-disorder transition in regular networks of end-linked diblock copolymers. Compared to diblock copolymer melts, the transition is shifted towards l...

We investigate interfacial properties between two highly incompatible polymers of different stiffness. The extensive Monte Carlo simulations of the binary polymer melt yield detailed interfacial profiles and the interfacial tension via an analysis of capillary fluctuations. We extract an effective Flory-Huggins parameter from the simulations, which is used in self-consistent field calculations....

We re-explore the kinetics of spinodal decomposition in off-critical polymer blends through numerical simulations of the Cahn-Hilliard equation with the Flory-Huggins-De Gennes free energy functional. Even in the absence of thermal noise, the solution of the discretized equation of motion shows coarsening in the late stages of spinodal decomposition without evidence of pinning, regardless of th...

Related Articles Surface instabilities of minority chains in dense polymer brushes: A comparison of density functional theory and quasi-off-lattice self-consistent field theory J. Chem. Phys. 137, 064907 (2012) Strength and equation of state of fluorite phase CeO2 under high pressure J. Appl. Phys. 112, 013532 (2012) Acoustic properties of Kel F-800 copolymer up to 85 GPa J. Chem. Phys. 137, 01...