Sol–Gel Transition of a Thermo-Responsive Polymer at the Closest Solid Interface

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c01522
• Publication Date: 2024-08-06T20:55:07Z
• Authors: Kenji Yamaoka; Yoshihisa Fujii; Naoya Torikai
• Keywords: Quartz Crystal Microbalance

Thermo-responsive polymers are applied as surface modifications for the temperature switching of hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties through adsorption grafting on solid substrates. The current understanding influence polymer chains bound to transition behavior thermo-responsive is rather restricted. In this study, we aim elucidate effect at interface sol-gel aqueous methylcellulose (MC) solutions by employing a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) evaluate shear modulus near interface. When sample thickness was thinner order millimeter scale, evaluated cloud point decreased because condensation MC promoted transition. On other hand, focusing closest nanometer scale QCM, increased when approaching Adsorption interfacial interactions reduced chain mobility restrained preventing aggregation. We demonstrated physical evaluation between substrate combining simple analytical model QCM controlling depth sensors. conclusion, change caused must be considered in adsorbed or thin films substrates functionalization biomaterials.