Spontaneous formation of complex micelles from a homogeneous solution.
We present an extensive computer simulation study of structure formation in amphiphilic block copolymer solutions after a quench from a homogeneous state. By using a mesoscopic field-based simulation method, we are able to access time scales in the range of a second. A "phase diagram" of final structures is mapped out as a function of the concentration and solvent philicity of the copolymers. A rich spectrum of structures is observed, ranging from spherical and rodlike micelles and vesicles to toroidal and net-cage micelles. The dynamical pathways leading to these structures are analyzed in detail, and possible ways to control the structures are discussed briefly.
He
Xuehao
X
Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, 300072 Tianjin, China.
Schmid
Friederike
F
D003198:Computer Simulation; D057927:Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions; D008823:Micelles; D008956:Models, Chemical; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D012996:Solutions
D008823:Micelles; D011108:Polymers; D012996:Solutions