title: Amplification of tension in branched macromolecules.
abstract: We propose a method for the design of branched macromolecules that are capable of building up high tension ( approximately nN) in their covalent bonds without applying an external force. The tension is self-generated due to repulsion between branches and depends on the molecular architecture leading to amplification and focusing of tension in specific bonds. The simplest architecture is a pom-pom composed of a linear spacer and two z-arm stars at its ends resulting in z-fold tension amplification. Adsorption of those macromolecules on a substrate results in further increase in tension as compared to molecules in solution.
authors.affiliation: P. N. Lebedev Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117924, Russia.
authors.forename: Sergey V
authors.initials: SV
authors.lastname: Panyukov
authors.forename: Sergei S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Sheiko
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rubinstein
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D055119:Elastic Modulus; D046911:Macromolecular Substances / Q000737:chemistry*; D008956:Models, Chemical; D008958:Models, Molecular; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013718:Tensile Strength
chemical_list: D046911:Macromolecular Substances