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arXiv · 0712.3326

Spontaneous formation of complex micelles from homogeneous solution

Xuehao He·Friederike Schmid
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Abstract

We present an extensive computer simulation study of structure formation in amphiphilic block copolymer solutions after a quench from a homogeneous state. By using a mesoscopic field-based simulation method, we are able to access time scales in the range of a second. A phase diagram of final structures is mapped out as a function of the concentration and solvent-philicity of the copolymers. A rich spectrum of structures is observed, ranging from spherical and rodlike micelles and vesicles to toroidal and net-cage micelles. The dynamical pathways leading to these structures are analyzed in detail, and possible ways to control the structures are discussed briefly.

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Xuehao He, Friederike Schmid. 2008-02-26. Spontaneous formation of complex micelles from homogeneous solution. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.100.137802

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