Conformations of polymer and polyelectrolyte stars

The structure of polymer and polyelectrolyte stars in solution was studied by means of joint analysis of the results of analytical consideration, allowing for nonlocal effects, and numerical simulation based on the Scheutjens-Fleer self-consistent field approach. A limitation of the theoretical treatment is the assumption that all ends of polymer chains are fixed onto the external surface and its benefit is the possibility of obtaining compact and interpretable results. The Scheutjens-Fleer approach makes it possible to study conformations without introduction of additional limitations. The combination of analytical methods and direct numerical calculation turns out to be especially informative.