Long-range depletion forces induced by associating small molecules

Phys Rev Lett. 2006 Aug 11;97(6):068301. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.97.068301. Epub 2006 Aug 7.

Abstract

This is the first report of experimental observations of depletion interactions in solutions of a (hydrogen-bonded) reversible supramolecular polymer. Depletion forces were measured directly by colloidal probe atomic force microscopy. The range of the depletion force is consistent with existing independent experimental data. The interaction can be tuned by adding monofunctional chain stoppers to the solution, a possibility which is unique to supramolecular polymers. The depletion force is shown to be strong enough to induce phase separation in a colloidal suspension.

MeSH terms

  • Colloids / chemistry*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry*
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Models, Molecular*
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Stress, Mechanical

Substances

  • Colloids
  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Polymers