Abstract
We consider the problem of polyelectrolyte molecules adsorbing on oppositely charged interfaces. For sufficiently long chains, the ground-state dominance approximation can be used which results in a (semi-) analytical solution of the self-consistent field equations (aSCF). Whereas existing aSCF theory assumes a low polyelectrolyte density, here the required electrostatic corrections for a high polymer density are implemented. Adsorbed polymer excludes volume for the solvent and small ions, a volume effect that also leads to a reduced dielectric permittivity and a resulting polarization term in the exchange potential. Calculations show the influence of volume exclusion on the polymer density profile.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 353-359 |
Journal | European Physical Journal E. Soft Matter and Biological Physics |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2005 |
Keywords
- weak polyelectrolytes
- surfaces
- stability
- rigidity