Abstract

Abstract The structural formation of polymer–nanoparticle composites (PNC), which are also called polymer spherical brushes, is investigated by Monte Carlo simulations. Based on an osmotic model, the solid–liquid transition of PNC systems due to the steric effect between PNCs is studied by employing the Lindemann criterion and the Hansen–Verlet criterion. The phase diagram of PNC systems is also clarified by the free-energy analysis of the system. These results indicate the existence of PNC crystals with sufficiently high density and the large number of polymer chains per each particle.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call