Dynamics and Thermodynamics of Polymers

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9625485 Muthukumar Theoretical studies will be done on the following: (1) thermodynamics of polyelectrolyte solutions; (2) relaxation and transport of polyelectrolytes and liquid crystals in random environments; (3) topological frustrations associated with pattern formation and complexations; (4) phase separation kinetics in liquid crystalline systems. Full mathematical expressions will be derived to describe the nonuniversal features of (1) the fast and slow dynamics accompanying the `ordinary-extrordinary' transition in polyelectrolyte solutions; (2) pattern recognition and transport of polyelectrolytes in random media; and (3) phase separation kinetics and defect dynamics of polymer dispersed liquid crystals. This theoretical research complements many experimental investigations which are being actively pursued in laboratories worldwide. The results of this theoretical research are relevant to numerous applied areas such as separation techniques like chromatography and electrophoresis; preparation and processing of molecular composites and light shutters for devices; and controlled fabrication of nanoscale structures and artificial enzymes. %%% This grant supports theoretical research on polymers and complex fluids. A wide variety of problems will be addressed. The fundamental issues which will be investigated have ramifications in many applications. ***