Abstract
This paper describes the preparation of ferrocene-containing polymer brushes with different side chain lengths by surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP). The polymer brushes are characterized by cyclic voltammetry to determine the surface coverage of the ferrocene (Fc) units, their thickness in air by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and ellipsometry, and their mechanical properties by AFM-based nanoindentation. The results are compared against an ideal packing model and we conclude that brushes with short linkers between the Fc units and the polymer back bone are stiff and stand up in air up to 40nm tall. In contrast, polymers with long linkers collapse and do not stand up in air. Our results indicate that the stiffness and packing structure of Fc-containing polymer brushes are affected by the length of the linkers between the Fc and polymer back bone.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
