The structure and dynamic properties of polymers at interfaces

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Interfaces, between polymers and their environment and between different constituents in a multiphase polymeric material, play a significant role in macroscopic end-use and processing behaviors such as: the crystalline content, morphology and grading; the strength of a composite material; slip under flow and production rate-limiting features such as surface fracture or die drool. While much is known about the surface and interfacial properties of polymers, there is a lack of detailed models relating the molecular structure of the polymer, its local structure, composition and dynamic properties at the interface and the macroscopic behaviors. In this work we will provide the required molecular level understanding that will drive the development of sophisticated, quantitative and realistic models. We will focus on two phenomena, surface induced crystallization of polymers and slip of polymer melts under flow, that are both manifestations of interfacial chain dynamics primarily determined by chain length, architecture and adsorption on a surface.