Light Driven Nano-Phase Separation in Polymer Brushes

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In this project we aim at establishing light triggered reversible nano-phase separation in mixed polymer brushes. During illumination with light of appropriate wave length de-mixing of two different types of polymer chains, each covalently attached to a solid surface, will result in reversible changes in polymer film properties such as topography, surface energy and local chemical composition. These types of polymer films we plan to utilize for developing distinct applications, such as the relocation of adsorbed nano-objects. The composition of the polymer surface as well as its response to the optical trigger will be adapted accordingly. The photo-sensitivity is introduced by loading one of the polymer blocks with azobenzene-containing molecules using either covalent or ionic attachment. The polymer surface itself is not pre-structured, any changes in morphology or surface energy will result from its photosensitive response to a tailored optical stimulus.