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.

Assembling hyperbranched polymerics

“…Preference was given to grafting from melt to assure relatively high grafting density. For instance, Sidorenko et al 113 have reported the melt grafting of epoxy-functionalized hyperbranched polyesters (EHBP) to a bare silicon surface by the reaction of secondary epoxy groups with the hydroxyl groups at elevated temperature (Fig. 7).…”

Efficient thermal properties enhancement to hyperbranched aromatic polyamide grafted aluminum nitride in epoxy composites

“…Herein, a strategy of hyperbranched aromatic polyamide grafted AlN nanoparticles into epoxy matrix for excellent thermal properties has been proposed. Hyperbranched polymers have attracted a great deal of attention during the past decade because of their unique properties, amenability to numerous structural modifications, and potential for applications . Many reviews and books describe the range of structures that have been reported in the literature and highlight some of their interesting applications .…”

Functionalization of solid surfaces with hyperbranched polyesters to control protein adsorption

“…Due to their specific properties, as low solution viscosity and high solubility, caused by the highly branched globular structure they are considered for various applications. This is demonstrated by a variety of publications on the use of HBPs in water treatment [8], microelectronics [9,10], medical chemistry [11,12] and in coating technology [13][14][15][16][17]. In thin film applications the large amount of functional groups in HBPs is available for the interaction with "analyte" molecules (e.g.…”