Journal article
Networks of gel-forming triblock copolymer solutions: In situ SANS and rheological measurements
Triblock copolymers in a solvent, selective for their middle blocks provide the basis for the formation of novel physical networks where cross-links are formed by self-assembled domains of the end-blocks. Triblock copolymers of poly(styrene)-poly(ethylene,butylene)-poly(styrene) (SEBS) dissolved in a mixture of aliphatic and alicyclic compounds constitute such a network system.
Using a Rheometrics RSA-2 instrument modified for in situ measurements of small-angle neutron scattering and rheology provides a unique possibility far detailed understanding thermodynamics of such a gel. The self-association of the PS-blocks do not only promote formation of highly inter-connected end-block domains, but within a narrow temperature range these domains furthermore constitute a network with body-centered cubic (BCC) microstructure.
Upon large amplitude oscillating shear the polycrystalline soft gel can be aligned into a twinned BCC monodomain. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Language: | English |
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Year: | 1998 |
Pages: | 1025-1028 |
ISSN: | 18732135 and 09214526 |
Types: | Journal article |
DOI: | 10.1016/S0921-4526(97)00784-9 |
ORCIDs: | Almdal, K. |