Abstract
In searching for new and efficient mechanisms for moving or propelling nano-sizedobjects across a flat surface, we discuss the idea of using the periodicallyswitchable topography of a certain class of polymer substrates. In thispaper, we exploit the peculiar properties of diblock-copolymer and mixedbrushes that can undergo transitions between very distinct topographicalpatterns and a flat state. We investigate if, during the transition process, thereshaping of the surface structure, accompanied by a microphase transition,could deliver a sufficient amount of mechanical work to move objectsadsorbed on the surface. We show this by following the spatial distribution ofan ensemble of silica particles adsorbed on several kinds of poly(methylmethacrylate–b-glycidyl methacrylate) diblock-copolymer brushes, when thesurface topography undergoes many periods of the switching process.
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