Diffusion of compact macromolecules through polymer meshes: Mesh dynamics and probe dynamics

R. Biehl, X. Guo, R. K. Prud'homme, M. Monkenbusch, J. Allgeier, D. Richter

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

The diffusion of compact macromolecules in polymer networks is examined to understand how polymer networks or gels could be used to filter different types of macromolecules. We present new measurements of the network and probe dynamics by neutron spin-echo spectroscopy (NSE). The investigated system consists of the protein α-lactalbumin (Rg = 15.2Å) as probe and a network of high molecular weight polyethylenoxide. The high molecular weight ensures a long disentanglement time for the polymer in order to create a stable network. We compare the network dynamics and the dynamics of the probe protein in the network at different mesh sizes. We study the dynamics at different q values between 0.03 and 0.22Å-1. The corresponding length scales reach from distances smaller than the mesh size to larger than the mesh size.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)76-78
Number of pages3
JournalPhysica B: Condensed Matter
Volume350
Issue number1-3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 30 2004

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Keywords

  • Gel dynamics
  • Macromolecule
  • Neutron spin echo
  • Probe diffusion

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Diffusion of compact macromolecules through polymer meshes: Mesh dynamics and probe dynamics'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this