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arXiv · 0705.0718

Field-Theoretic Simulations of Polyelectrolyte Complexation

Yuri O. Popov·Jonghoon Lee·Glenn H. Fredrickson
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Abstract

We briefly discuss our recent field-theoretic study of polyelectrolyte complexation, which occurs in solutions of two oppositely charged polyelectrolytes. Charged systems require theoretical methods beyond the mean-field (or self-consistent field) approximation; indeed, mean-field theory is qualitatively incorrect for such polyelectrolyte solutions. Both analytical (one-loop) and numerical (complex Langevin) methods to account for charge correlations are discussed. In particular, the first application of field-theoretic simulations to polyelectrolyte systems is reported. The polyelectrolyte charge-charge correlation length and a phase diagram are provided; effects of charge redistribution are qualitatively explored.

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Yuri O. Popov, Jonghoon Lee, Glenn H. Fredrickson. 2007-05-04. Field-Theoretic Simulations of Polyelectrolyte Complexation. https://doi.org/10.1002/polb.21334

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