Hyperbranched Polymer Layers as Multifunctional Interfaces

Abstract

We suggest a simple, one-step procedure to prepare a homogeneous functional polymer layer grafted to a silicon oxide substrate. We demonstrate that robust and uniform nanoscale layers can be fabricated from the functionalized hyperbranched polymer with dual nature of terminal branches: alkyl chains combined with epoxy-functionalized chains. A branched chemical architecture with multiple epoxy groups provides the grafting capability inducing surface functionality along with simultaneous hydrophobization of the surface. We suggest the monolayer structure of these grafted films. These hyperbranched monolayers are thicker than conventional alkyl-chain self-assembling monolayers (SAMs) and demonstrate elastic properties typical for cross-linked polymer layers. The surface is composed of epoxy groups randomly distributed within alkyl peripheral branches. Grafted hyperbranched polymer layers are homogeneous on a nanoscale without signs of the microphase separation and heterogeneous domain surface structures usually observed for two-component SAMs.