Competing single-chain folding and multi-chain aggregation pathways control solution-phase aggregate morphology of organic semiconducting polymers
Belinda J. Boehm, Christopher R. McNeill, David M. Huang
Abstract
non-equilibrium assembly. This behaviour requires that multi-chain aggregation occurs faster than chain folding, which we show is the case for the chain lengths and concentrations shown experimentally to form rod-like aggregates. This kinetically controlled process introduces a dependence of aggregate structure on concentration, chain length, and chain flexibility, which we show is able to reconcile experimental findings and is generalisable to the solution-phase assembly of other semiflexible polymers.
Topics & Concepts
PolymerFolding (DSP implementation)MonomerPhase (matter)Chain (unit)Materials scienceAggregate (composite)Chemical physicsSolventMoleculeChemical engineeringNanotechnologyChemistryOrganic chemistryComposite materialPhysicsAstronomyElectrical engineeringEngineeringOrganic Electronics and PhotovoltaicsConducting polymers and applicationsBlock Copolymer Self-Assembly