Switchable Nano-Membranes From Stimuli-Responsive Block Copolymers

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The proposed project concerns the study of liquid flow through nano-scopic channels (Æ = 5-50 nm) the diameter of which can be reversibly modified by external stimuli (e.g. changes in pH, changes in temperature, illumination). The channels will be constructed by self-assembly of block copolymers containing stimulus-responsive blocks. The project comprises the tailormade synthesis of the block copolymers, the formation of membranes with macroscopically aligned nano-pores, and the study of liquid flow through the membranes as a function of the external stimulus. Single molecule fluorescence microscopy ("single molecule tracing") shall be used to locally characterize the flow. Both the stimulus-responsive block copolymers and the membranes will be available to other members of the Schwerpunktsprogramm. The technique of single molecule tracking may as well be of use for other partners in the SPP.