Long-range depletion forces induced by associating small molecules.
This is the first report of experimental observations of depletion interactions in solutions of a (hydrogen-bonded) reversible supramolecular polymer. Depletion forces were measured directly by colloidal probe atomic force microscopy. The range of the depletion force is consistent with existing independent experimental data. The interaction can be tuned by adding monofunctional chain stoppers to the solution, a possibility which is unique to supramolecular polymers. The depletion force is shown to be strong enough to induce phase separation in a colloidal suspension.
Knoben
Wout
W
Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Colloid Science, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 6, NL-6703 HB Wageningen, The Netherlands.
Besseling
N A M
NA
Cohen Stuart
M A
MA
D003102:Colloids / Q000737:chemistry*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006860:Hydrogen Bonding; D046911:Macromolecular Substances / Q000737:chemistry*; D008956:Models, Chemical; D008958:Models, Molecular; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical
D003102:Colloids; D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D011108:Polymers