The Physical Chemistry of Aqueous Polymer Solutions: Complex Nanostructures and Coupled Phase Transitions

University Of Maryland, College Park, College Park MD

Investigators

Abstract

In this award, supported by the Experimental Physical Chemistry Program of the Chemistry Division, Prof. Sandra Greer of the University of Maryland, College Park will conduct research studying complex nanostructures and phase transitions in aqueous polymer solutions. The samples will be studied with viscometry, size-exclusion chromatography, small-angle neutron scattering and dynamic light-scattering techniques. The ultimate goal of the research is to develop a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms for the behaviors of aqueous polymer systems. Ultimately, the research may result in useful ways of improving the control of polymer molecular weight, as well as having eventual applications in nanotechnology and biomimetic systems. The proposed research will be carried out by undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral researchers, working with Prof. Greer.