New interpretation of local dynamics of poly(dimethyl siloxane) observed by quasielastic neutron scattering

Phys Rev Lett. 2003 Feb 7;90(5):058301. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.90.058301. Epub 2003 Feb 3.

Abstract

Synthetic and natural polymers have complex dynamic behavior with distinct motions taking place on a wide range of time and length scales. For poly(dimethyl siloxane) we show that, at temperatures above the melting point, the reorientation of the CH3 groups provides a non-negligible contribution to the incoherent dynamic structure factor. Analysis of the quasielastic neutron scattering data is carried out using a model function that includes fast rotational motion of the CH3 groups and local conformational transitions between isomeric states. By using this model, detailed comparison between experimental data and theoretical predictions at distances where deviations from the traditional Rouse model are expected becomes possible.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Data Interpretation, Statistical*
  • Dimethylpolysiloxanes / chemistry*
  • Elasticity
  • Models, Chemical
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Neutrons
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • Temperature
  • Thermodynamics

Substances

  • Dimethylpolysiloxanes