Quantitative Nano-characterization of Polymers Using Atomic Force Microscopy

Abstract

The present article offers an overview on the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM) to characterize the nanomechanical properties of polymers. AFM imaging reveals the conformations of polymer molecules at solid- liquid interfaces. In particular, for polyelectrolytes, the effect of ionic strength on the conformations of molecules can be studied. Examination of force versus extension profiles obtained using AFM-based single molecule force spectroscopy gives information on the entropic and enthalpic elasticities in pN to nN force range. In addition, single molecule force spectroscopy can be used to trigger chemical reactions and transitions at the molecular level when force-sensitive chemical units are embedded in a polymer backbone.

Action of Mechanical Forces on Polymerization and Polymers

“…Ultrasonic impacts are now very widespread and a search is underway to expand their application in modern technologies. In particular, probing the mechanophore’s activity by ultrasonication and/or by nanoscale single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) experiments provides a way to optimize solid-state activation methods for polymers as shown by Deneke et al [ 1 ], Radiom et al [ 60 , 61 ] and Martínez-Tong et al [ 62 ]. Mechanochemical transformations under the action of ultrasound and SMFS are clearly manifested when using multi-MP polymers, as shown by Bowser and Craig [ 63 ].…”