@article{HoffmannMachatschekLendlein2022, author = {Hoffmann, Falk and Machatschek, Rainhard Gabriel and Lendlein, Andreas}, title = {Analytical model and Monte Carlo simulations of polymer degradation with improved chain cut statistics}, series = {Journal of materials research : JMR}, volume = {37}, journal = {Journal of materials research : JMR}, number = {5}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Heidelberg}, issn = {0884-2914}, doi = {10.1557/s43578-022-00495-4}, pages = {1093 -- 1101}, year = {2022}, abstract = {The degradation of polymers is described by mathematical models based on bond cleavage statistics including the decreasing probability of chain cuts with decreasing average chain length. We derive equations for the degradation of chains under a random chain cut and a chain end cut mechanism, which are compared to existing models. The results are used to predict the influence of internal molecular parameters. It is shown that both chain cut mechanisms lead to a similar shape of the mass or molecular mass loss curve. A characteristic time is derived, which can be used to extract the maximum length of soluble fragments l of the polymer. We show that the complete description is needed to extract the degradation rate constant k from the molecular mass loss curve and that l can be used to design polymers that lose less mechanical stability before entering the mass loss phase.}, language = {en} } @article{BaeckemoLiuLendlein2021, author = {B{\"a}ckemo, Johan Dag Valentin and Liu, Yue and Lendlein, Andreas}, title = {Bio-inspired and computer-supported design of modulated shape changes in polymer materials}, series = {MRS communications / a publication of the Materials Research Society}, volume = {11}, journal = {MRS communications / a publication of the Materials Research Society}, number = {4}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {2159-6867}, doi = {10.1557/s43579-021-00056-6}, pages = {462 -- 469}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The Venus flytrap is a fascinating plant with a finely tuned mechanical bi-stable system, which can switch between mono- and bi-stability. Here, we combine geometrical design of compliant mechanics and the function of shape-memory polymers to enable switching between bi- and mono-stable states. Digital design and modelling using the Chained Beam Constraint Model forecasted two geometries, which were experimentally realized as structured films of cross-linked poly[ethylene-co-(vinyl acetate)] supported by digital manufacturing. Mechanical evaluation confirmed our predicted features. We demonstrated that a shape-memory effect could switch between bi- and mono-stability for the same construct, effectively imitating the Venus flytrap.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Koelsch2014, author = {K{\"o}lsch, Jonas David}, title = {Entwicklung neuer farbstoffmarkierter Polymere zur Visualisierung des LCST-Phasen{\"u}bergangs in w{\"a}ssriger L{\"o}sung}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-72531}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {xvi, 147}, year = {2014}, abstract = {Ziel der Arbeit war die Entwicklung von farbstoffmarkierten Polymeren, die einen temperaturgetriebenen Kn{\"a}uel-Kollaps-Phasen{\"u}bergang in w{\"a}ssriger L{\"o}sung ("thermo-responsive Polymere") zeigen und diesen in ein optisches Signal {\"u}bersetzen k{\"o}nnen. Solche Polymere unterliegen innerhalb eines kleinen Temperaturintervalls einer massiven {\"A}nderung ihres Verhaltens, z B. ihrer Konformation und ihres Quellungsgrads. Diese {\"A}nderungen sind mit einem Wechsel der L{\"o}seeigenschaften von hydrophil zu hydrophob verbunden. Als Matrixpolymere wurden Poly-N-isopropylacrylamid (polyNIPAm), Poly(oligoethylen-glykolacrylat) (polyOEGA) und Poly(oligoethylenglykolmethacrylat) (polyOEGMA) ein-gesetzt, in die geeignete Farbstoffen durch Copolymerisation eingebaut wurden. Als besonders geeignet, um den Phasen{\"u}bergang in ein optisches Signal zu {\"u}bersetzen, erwiesen sich hierf{\"u}r kompakte, solvatochrome Cumarin- und Naphthalimidderivate. Diese beeintr{\"a}chtigten weder das Polymerisationsverhalten noch den Phasen{\"u}bergang, reagierten aber sowohl bez{\"u}glich Farbe als auch Fluoreszenz stark auf die Polarit{\"a}t des L{\"o}semittels. Weiterhin wurden Systeme entwickelt, die mittels Energietransfer (FRET) ein an den Phasen{\"u}bergang gekoppeltes optisches Signal erzeugen. Hierbei wurde ein Cumarin als Donor- und ein Polythiophen als Akzeptorfarbstoff eingesetzt. Es zeigte sich, dass trotz scheinbarer {\"A}hnlichkeit bestimmte Polymere ausgepr{\"a}gt auf einen Temperaturstimulus mit {\"A}nderung ihrer spektralen Eigenschaften reagieren, andere aber nicht. Hierf{\"u}r wurden die molekularen Ursachen untersucht. Als wahrscheinliche Gr{\"u}nde f{\"u}r das Ausbleiben einer spektralen {\"A}nderung in Oligo(ethylenglykol)-basierten Polymeren sind zum einen die fehlende Dehydratationseffektivit{\"a}t infolge des Fehlens eines selbstgen{\"u}genden Wasserstoffbr{\"u}ckenbindungsmotivs zu nennen und zum anderen die sterische Abschirmung der Farbstoffe durch die Oligo(ethylenglykol)-Seitenketten. Als Prinzipbeweis f{\"u}r die N{\"u}tzlichkeit solcher Systeme f{\"u}r die Bioanalytik wurde ein System entwickelt, dass die L{\"o}slichkeitseigenschaft eines thermoresponsiven Polymers durch Antik{\"o}rper-Antigen-Reaktion {\"a}nderte. Die Bindung selbst kleiner Mengen eines Antik{\"o}rpers ließ sich so direkt optisch auslesen und war bereits mit dem bloßen Auge zu erkennen.}, language = {de} } @article{MachatschekHeuchelLendlein2021, author = {Machatschek, Rainhard Gabriel and Heuchel, Matthias and Lendlein, Andreas}, title = {Hydrolytic stability of polyetherimide investigated in ultrathin films}, series = {Journal of materials research : JMR / Materials Research Society}, volume = {36}, journal = {Journal of materials research : JMR / Materials Research Society}, number = {14}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {0884-2914}, doi = {10.1557/s43578-021-00267-6}, pages = {2987 -- 2994}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Increasing the surface hydrophilicity of polyetherimide (PEI) through partial hydrolysis of the imide groups while maintaining the length of the main-chain was explored for adjusting its function in biomedical and membrane applications. The outcome of the polymer analogous reaction, i.e., the degree of ring opening and chain cleavage, is difficult to address in bulk and microstructured systems, as these changes only occur at the interface. Here, the reaction was studied at the air-water interface using the Langmuir technique, assisted by atomic force microscopy and vibrational spectroscopy. Slow PEI hydrolysis sets in at pH > 12. At pH = 14, the ring opening is nearly instantaneous. Reduction of the layer viscosity with time at pH = 14 suggested moderate chain cleavage. No hydrolysis was observed at pH = 1. Hydrolyzed PEI films had a much more cohesive structure, suggesting that the nanoporous morphology of PEI can be tuned via hydrolysis.}, language = {en} } @article{BehlBalkLuetzowetal.2021, author = {Behl, Marc and Balk, Maria and L{\"u}tzow, Karola and Lendlein, Andreas}, title = {Impact of block sequence on the phase morphology of multiblock copolymers obtained by high-throughput robotic synthesis}, series = {European polymer journal : EPJ}, volume = {143}, journal = {European polymer journal : EPJ}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Oxford}, issn = {0014-3057}, doi = {10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2020.110207}, pages = {9}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The chemical nature, the number length of integrated building blocks, as well as their sequence structure impact the phase morphology of multiblock copolymers (MBC) consisting of two non-miscible block types. We hypothesized that a strictly alternating sequence should favour phase segregation and in this way the elastic properties. A library of well-defined MBCs composed of two different hydrophobic, semi-crystalline blocks providing domains with well-separated melting temperatures (T(m)s) were synthesized from the same type of precursor building blocks as strictly alternating (MBCsalt) or random (MBCsran) MBCs and compared. Three different series of MBCsalt or MBCsran were synthesized by high-throughput synthesis by coupling oligo(e-caprolactone) (OCL) of different molecular weights (2, 4, and 8 kDa) with oligotetrahydrofuran (OTHF, 2.9 kDa) via Steglich esterification in which the molar ratio of the reaction partners was slightly adjusted. Maximum of weight average molecular weight (M-w) were 65,000 g center dot mol(-1), 165,000 g center dot mol(-1), and 168,000 g center dot mol(-1) for MBCsalt and 80,500 g center dot mol(-1), 100,000 g center dot mol(-1), and 147,600 g center dot mol(-1) for MBCsran. When Mw increased, a decrease of both Tms associated to the melting of the OCL and OTHF domains was observed for all MBCs. T-m (OTHF) of MBCsran was always higher than Tm (OTHF) of MBCsalt, which was attributed to a better phase segregation. In addition, the elongation at break of MBCsalt was almost half as high when compared to MBCsran. In this way this study elucidates role of the block length and sequence structure in MBCs and enables a quantitative discussion of the structure-function relationship when two semi-crystalline block segments are utilized for the design of block copolymers.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Hahn2009, author = {Hahn, Harald}, title = {Modularer Ansatz zu multifunktionellen Polymer-Peptid-Fasern}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-33016}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, year = {2009}, abstract = {Die Kombination von Polymeren mit Peptiden vereint die Eigenschaften beider Stoffklassen miteinander. Dabei k{\"o}nnen die strukturbildenden Eigenschaften der Peptide genutzt werden, um Polymere zu organisieren. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurde ein Polymer-Peptid-Konjugat verwendet, das sich in Wasser zu B{\"a}ndern anordnet. Die treibende Kraft f{\"u}r diesen Prozess ist die Anordnung des Peptidteils zu β-Faltblattstrukturen. Das Polymer-Peptid-Aggregat besitzt einen Peptidkern mit funktionalen Oberfl{\"a}chen, der lateral von einer Polyethylenoxidschale umgeben ist. Durch {\"A}nderung der Peptidsequenz war es bisher m{\"o}glich, die Eigenschaften dieser Fasern zu variieren. In der Arbeit wird ein modularer Ansatz zur vielf{\"a}ltigen Modifizierung einer Polymer-Peptid-Faser entwickelt. So ist es m{\"o}glich, die Eigenschaften der Fasern einzustellen, ohne die strukturbildende β-Faltblattsequenz ver{\"a}ndern zu m{\"u}ssen. Um weitere Funktionen an den Fasern anzubringen, wurde die 1,3-dipolaren Addition verwendet. Diese Reaktion beschreibt die konzertierte Umlagerung eines Azides mit einem Alkin. Sie ist in den meisten L{\"o}sungsmitteln unter hohen Ausbeuten durchf{\"u}hrbar. Im Rahmen der Arbeit wird die Erzeugung von Aziden untersucht und auf die Polymer-Peptid-Fasern {\"u}bertragen. Der Diazotransfer stellte dabei die Methode der Wahl dar, so k{\"o}nnen Azidgruppen aus Aminen gewonnen werden. Unter Verwendung der 1,3-dipolaren Addition konnten verschiedene alkinfunktionale Molek{\"u}le kovalent an die azidfunktionalisierten Polymer-Peptid-Fasern gebunden werden. So wurde ein Fluoreszenzfarbstoff an die Fasern gebunden, der eine Abbildung der Fasern mittels konfokaler Mikroskopie erlaubte. Weiterhin wurden die Eigenschaften der Fasern durch Addition dreier carboxylfunktionaler Molek{\"u}le modifiziert. Diese Fasern konnten weiter genutzt werden, um Kalzium zu binden. Dabei variierte die Anzahl der gebundenen Kalziumionen in Abh{\"a}ngigkeit der jeweiligen Fasermodifikation erheblich. Weitere Untersuchungen, die Morphologie von Kalziumcarbonatkristallen betreffend, werden aktuell durchgef{\"u}hrt. Die kovalente Anbringung eines reduzierenden Zuckers an die Polymer-Peptid-Fasern erlaubt die Abscheidung von Silber aus Tollens Reagenz. Durch eine Entwicklung analog zur Schwarz-Weiss-Photographie k{\"o}nnen in nachfolgenden Arbeiten so Silberdr{\"a}hte in Nanogr{\"o}ße erzeugt werden. An die azidfunktionalen Fasern k{\"o}nnen weitere funktionale Molek{\"u}le angebracht werden, um die Eigenschaften und das Anwendungsspektrum der Polymer-Peptid-Fasern zu erweitern.}, language = {de} } @phdthesis{Saretia2021, author = {Saretia, Shivam}, title = {Modulating ultrathin films of semi-crystalline oligomers by Langmuir technique}, doi = {10.25932/publishup-54210}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-542108}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {XIII, 109}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Polymeric films and coatings derived from semi-crystalline oligomers are of relevance for medical and pharmaceutical applications. In this context, the material surface is of particular importance, as it mediates the interaction with the biological system. Two dimensional (2D) systems and ultrathin films are used to model this interface. However, conventional techniques for their preparation, such as spin coating or dip coating, have disadvantages, since the morphology and chain packing of the generated films can only be controlled to a limited extent and adsorption on the substrate used affects the behavior of the films. Detaching and transferring the films prepared by such techniques requires additional sacrificial or supporting layers, and free-standing or self supporting domains are usually of very limited lateral extension. The aim of this thesis is to study and modulate crystallization, melting, degradation and chemical reactions in ultrathin films of oligo(ε-caprolactone)s (OCL)s with different end-groups under ambient conditions. Here, oligomeric ultrathin films are assembled at the air-water interface using the Langmuir technique. The water surface allows lateral movement and aggregation of the oligomers, which, unlike solid substrates, enables dynamic physical and chemical interaction of the molecules. Parameters like surface pressure (π), temperature and mean molecular area (MMA) allow controlled assembly and manipulation of oligomer molecules when using the Langmuir technique. The π-MMA isotherms, Brewster angle microscopy (BAM), and interfacial infrared spectroscopy assist in detecting morphological and physicochemical changes in the film. Ultrathin films can be easily transferred to the solid silicon surface via Langmuir Schaefer (LS) method (horizontal substrate dipping). Here, the films transferred on silicon are investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and optical microscopy and are compared to the films on the water surface. The semi-crystalline morphology (lamellar thicknesses, crystal number densities, and lateral crystal dimensions) is tuned by the chemical structure of the OCL end-groups (hydroxy or methacrylate) and by the crystallization temperature (Tc; 12 or 21 °C) or MMAs. Compression to lower MMA of ~2 {\AA}2, results in the formation of a highly crystalline film, which consists of tightly packed single crystals. Preparation of tightly packed single crystals on a cm2 scale is not possible by conventional techniques. Upon transfer to a solid surface, these films retain their crystalline morphology whereas amorphous films undergo dewetting. The melting temperature (Tm) of OCL single crystals at the water and the solid surface is found proportional to the inverse crystal thickness and is generally lower than the Tm of bulk PCL. The impact of OCL end-groups on melting behavior is most noticeable at the air-solid interface, where the methacrylate end-capped OCL (OCDME) melted at lower temperatures than the hydroxy end-capped OCL (OCDOL). When comparing the underlying substrate, melting/recrystallization of OCL ultrathin films is possible at lower temperatures at the air water interface than at the air-solid interface, where recrystallization is not visible. Recrystallization at the air-water interface usually occurs at a higher temperature than the initial Tc. Controlled degradation is crucial for the predictable performance of degradable polymeric biomaterials. Degradation of ultrathin films is carried out under acidic (pH ~ 1) or enzymatic catalysis (lipase from Pseudomonas cepcia) on the water surface or on a silicon surface as transferred films. A high crystallinity strongly reduces the hydrolytic but not the enzymatic degradation rate. As an influence of end-groups, the methacrylate end-capped linear oligomer, OCDME (~85 ± 2 \% end-group functionalization) hydrolytically degrades faster than the hydroxy end capped linear oligomer, OCDOL (~95 ± 3 \% end-group functionalization) at different temperatures. Differences in the acceleration of hydrolytic degradation of semi-crystalline films were observed upon complete melting, partial melting of the crystals, or by heating to temperatures close to Tm. Therefore, films of densely packed single crystals are suitable as barrier layers with thermally switchable degradation rates. Chemical modification in ultrathin films is an intricate process applicable to connect functionalized molecules, impart stability or create stimuli-sensitive cross-links. The reaction of end-groups is explored for transferred single crystals on a solid surface or amorphous monolayer at the air-water interface. Bulky methacrylate end-groups are expelled to the crystal surface during chain-folded crystallization. The density of end-groups is inversely proportional to molecular weight and hence very pronounced for oligomers. The methacrylate end-groups at the crystal surface, which are present at high concentration, can be used for further chemical functionalization. This is demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy after reaction with fluorescein dimethacrylate. The thermoswitching behavior (melting and recrystallization) of fluorescein functionalized single crystals shows the temperature-dependent distribution of the chemically linked fluorescein moieties, which are accumulated on the surfaces of crystals, and homogeneously dispersed when the crystals are molten. In amorphous monolayers at the air-water interface, reversible cross-linking of hydroxy-terminated oligo(ε-caprolactone) monolayers using dialdehyde (glyoxal) lead to the formation of 2D networks. Pronounced contraction in the area occurred for 2D OCL films in dependence of surface pressure and time indicating the reaction progress. Cross linking inhibited crystallization and retarded enzymatic degradation of the OCL film. Altering the subphase pH to ~2 led to cleavage of the covalent acetal cross-links. Besides as model systems, these reversibly cross-linked films are applicable for drug delivery systems or cell substrates modulating adhesion at biointerfaces.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Vacogne2016, author = {Vacogne, Charlotte D.}, title = {New synthetic routes towards well-defined polypeptides, morphologies and hydrogels}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-396366}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {xii, 175}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Proteins are natural polypeptides produced by cells; they can be found in both animals and plants, and possess a variety of functions. One of these functions is to provide structural support to the surrounding cells and tissues. For example, collagen (which is found in skin, cartilage, tendons and bones) and keratin (which is found in hair and nails) are structural proteins. When a tissue is damaged, however, the supporting matrix formed by structural proteins cannot always spontaneously regenerate. Tailor-made synthetic polypeptides can be used to help heal and restore tissue formation. Synthetic polypeptides are typically synthesized by the so-called ring opening polymerization (ROP) of α-amino acid N-carboxyanhydrides (NCA). Such synthetic polypeptides are generally non-sequence-controlled and thus less complex than proteins. As such, synthetic polypeptides are rarely as efficient as proteins in their ability to self-assemble and form hierarchical or structural supramolecular assemblies in water, and thus, often require rational designing. In this doctoral work, two types of amino acids, γ-benzyl-L/D-glutamate (BLG / BDG) and allylglycine (AG), were selected to synthesize a series of (co)polypeptides of different compositions and molar masses. A new and versatile synthetic route to prepare polypeptides was developed, and its mechanism and kinetics were investigated. The polypeptide properties were thoroughly studied and new materials were developed from them. In particular, these polypeptides were able to aggregate (or self-assemble) in solution into microscopic fibres, very similar to those formed by collagen. By doing so, they formed robust physical networks and organogels which could be processed into high water-content, pH-responsive hydrogels. Particles with highly regular and chiral spiral morphologies were also obtained by emulsifying these polypeptides. Such polypeptides and the materials derived from them are, therefore, promising candidates for biomedical applications.}, language = {en} } @article{FarhanBehlKratzetal.2021, author = {Farhan, Muhammad and Behl, Marc and Kratz, Karl and Lendlein, Andreas}, title = {Origami hand for soft robotics driven by thermally controlled polymeric fiber actuators}, series = {MRS communications / a publication of the Materials Research Society}, volume = {11}, journal = {MRS communications / a publication of the Materials Research Society}, number = {4}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {2159-6859}, doi = {10.1557/s43579-021-00058-4}, pages = {476 -- 482}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Active fibers can serve as artificial muscles in robotics or components of smart textiles. Here, we present an origami hand robot, where single fibers control the reversible movement of the fingers. A recovery/contracting force of 0.2 N with a work capacity of 0.175 kJ kg(-1) was observed in crosslinked poly[ethylene-co-(vinyl acetate)] (cPEVA) fibers, which could enable the bending movement of the fingers by contraction upon heating. The reversible opening of the fingers was attributed to a combination of elastic recovery force of the origami structure and crystallization-induced elongation of the fibers upon cooling.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Meyer2006, author = {Meyer, Matthias}, title = {PIPOX-PEP : kontrollierte Synthese und Aggregationsverhalten von Blockcopolymeren mit schaltbarer Hydrophilie}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-10832}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, year = {2006}, abstract = {Es wurden Poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazolin)-Makroinitiatoren mit terminaler Ammoniumtrifluoracetat-Endgruppe synthetisiert, die anschließend f{\"u}r die Ammonium vermittelte NCA Polymerisation in NMP eingesetzt wurden. Die hierbei synthetisierten Poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazolin)-block-poly(L-glutamat) (PIPOX-PEP) Blockcopolymere hatten eine Molekulargewichtsverteilung von 1,2 (UZ). Es wurde beobachtet, dass Poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazolin) bei langen Zeiten oberhalb der LCST irreversibel sph{\"a}rische Strukturen bildet, die eine hierarchische Struktur besitzen und bei denen es sich m{\"o}glicherweise um "large compound micelles" handelt. PIPOX-PEP kann in w{\"a}sseriger L{\"o}sung bei langen Zeiten oberhalb der LCST "cottonball" Strukturen bilden. Die Aggregate wurden mittels Lichtstreuung, NMR und TEM charakterisiert. Im Rahmen der Arbeit wurden Strukturbildungsmodelle entwickelt.}, subject = {Polymer}, language = {de} } @phdthesis{Noack2019, author = {Noack, Sebastian}, title = {Poly(lactide)-based amphiphilic block copolymers}, doi = {10.25932/publishup-43616}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-436168}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {xvii, 148}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Due to its bioavailability and (bio)degradability, poly(lactide) (PLA) is an interesting polymer that is already being used as packaging material, surgical seam, and drug delivery system. Dependent on various parameters such as polymer composition, amphiphilicity, sample preparation, and the enantiomeric purity of lactide, PLA in an amphiphilic block copolymer can affect the self-assembly behavior dramatically. However, sizes and shapes of aggregates have a critical effect on the interactions between biological and drug delivery systems, where the general understanding of these polymers and their ability to influence self-assembly is of significant interest in science. The first part of this thesis describes the synthesis and study of a series of linear poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and poly(D-lactide) (PDLA)-based amphiphilic block copolymers with varying PLA (hydrophobic), and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) (hydrophilic) chain lengths and different block copolymer sequences (PEG-PLA and PLA-PEG). The PEG-PLA block copolymers were synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of lactide initiated by a PEG-OH macroinitiator. In contrast, the PLA-PEG block copolymers were produced by a Steglich-esterification of modified PLA with PEG-OH. The aqueous self-assembly at room temperature of the enantiomerically pure PLLA-based block copolymers and their stereocomplexed mixtures was investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Spherical micelles and worm-like structures were produced, whereby the obtained self-assembled morphologies were affected by the lactide weight fraction in the block copolymer and self-assembly time. The formation of worm-like structures increases with decreasing PLA-chain length and arises from spherical micelles, which become colloidally unstable and undergo an epitaxial fusion with other micelles. As shown by DSC experiments, the crystallinity of the corresponding PLA blocks increases within the self-assembly time. However, the stereocomplexed self-assembled structures behave differently from the parent polymers and result in irregular-shaped clusters of spherical micelles. Additionally, time-dependent self-assembly experiments showed a transformation, from already self-assembled morphologies of different shapes to more compact micelles upon stereocomplexation. In the second part of this thesis, with the objective to influence the self-assembly of PLA-based block copolymers and its stereocomplexes, poly(methyl phosphonate) (PMeP) and poly(isopropyl phosphonate) (PiPrP) were produced by ring-opening polymerization to implement an alternative to the hydrophilic block PEG. Although, the 1,8 diazabicyclo[5.4.0]unde 7 ene (DBU) or 1,5,7 triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene (TBD) mediated synthesis of the corresponding poly(alkyl phosphonate)s was successful, however, not so the polymerization of copolymers with PLA-based precursors (PLA-homo polymers, and PEG-PLA block copolymers). Transesterification, obtained by 1H-NMR spectroscopy, between the poly(phosphonate)- and PLA block caused a high-field shifted peak split of the methine proton in the PLA polymer chain, with split intensities depending on the used catalyst (DBU for PMeP, and TBD for PiPrP polymerization). An additional prepared block copolymer PiPrP-PLLA that wasn't affected in its polymer sequence was finally used for self-assembly experiments with PLA-PEG and PEG-PLA mixing. This work provides a comprehensive study of the self-assembly behavior of PLA-based block copolymers influenced by various parameters such as polymer block lengths, self-assembly time, and stereocomplexation of block copolymer mixtures.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Hentschel2008, author = {Hentschel, Jens}, title = {Synthese und kontrollierte Mikrostrukturbildung funktionaler Peptid-Polymerkonjugate in organischen L{\"o}sungsmitteln}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-19840}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, year = {2008}, abstract = {In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurde ein Ansatz verfolgt, die besonderen Eigenschaften der Strukturbildung sequenzdefinierter Peptide mit den vielseitigen Materialeigenschaften synthetischer Blockcopolymere zu kombinieren. Dazu wurde ein synthetisches Polymer kovalent mit einer definierten Peptidsequenz verkn{\"u}pft. Der Peptidblock (die Organisationseinheit) wurde speziell designt, um sp{\"a}ter die Strukturbildung des Peptid-Polymerkonjugates induzieren und leiten zu k{\"o}nnen. Als Organisationsmotiv diente hierbei das aus der Natur bekannte β-Faltblatt Strukturmotiv. Das Peptidsegment wurde in einer festphasengebundenen Synthese aufgebaut. Dabei wurden tempor{\"a}re St{\"o}r-Segmente (Switch-Segmente) in die Peptidsequenz integriert. Diese Segmente unterdr{\"u}cken die Aggregationstendenz w{\"a}hrend der Synthese und k{\"o}nnen durch einen pH-abh{\"a}ngigen Schaltvorgang in das nat{\"u}rliche Peptidr{\"u}ckgrat {\"u}berf{\"u}hrt werden. Zus{\"a}tzlich zu der verbesserten Ausbeute und Reinheit der entsprechenden Peptide war auf diese Weise eine kontrollierte Aktivierung der Mikrostrukturbildung m{\"o}glich. Mit Hilfe zwei verschiedener Synthesestrategien (Kupplungs- bzw. Polymerisationsstrategie) wurde ein Satz von definierten Peptid-Polymerkonjugaten mit unterschiedlich großen Polymersegmenten synthetisiert. Diese wurden anschließend im Hinblick auf ihre Strukturbildungseigenschaften in organischen L{\"o}sungsmitteln untersucht. Durch mikroskopische Verfahren (AFM, TEM), konnte f{\"u}r alle Konjugate, die Bildung faserartiger Aggregate mit Dimensionen im Nano- bis Mikrometerbereich beobachtet werden. Genauere Untersuchungen zeigten, dass die Peptidsegmente in diesen Faserstrukturen ein β-Faltblatt ausbilden. Dies ist ein deutlicher Hinweis darauf, dass die Strukturbildung der Konjugate tats{\"a}chlich durch den Peptidblock gesteuert und kontrolliert wurde.}, language = {de} } @phdthesis{Tan2018, author = {Tan, Li}, title = {Synthesis, assembly and thermo-responsivity of polymer-functionalized magnetic cobalt nanoparticles}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-418153}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {X, 111}, year = {2018}, abstract = {This thesis mainly covers the synthesis, surface modification, magnetic-field-induced assembly and thermo-responsive functionalization of superparamagnetic Co NPs initially stabilized by hydrophobic small molecules oleic acid (OA) and trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO), as well as the synthesis of both superparamagnetic and ferromagnetic Co NPs by using end-functionalized-polystyrene as stabilizer. Co NPs, due to their excellent magnetic and catalytic properties, have great potential application in various fields, such as ferrofluids, catalysis, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Superparamagnetic Co NPs are especially interesting, since they exhibit zero coercivity. They get magnetized in an external magnetic field and reach their saturation magnetization rapidly, but no magnetic moment remains after removal of the applied magnetic field. Therefore, they do not agglomerate in the body when they are used in biomedical applications. Normally, decomposition of metallic precursors at high temperature is one of the most important methods in preparation of monodisperse magnetic NPs, providing tunability in size and shape. Hydrophobic ligands like OA, TOPO and oleylamine are often used to both control the growth of NPs and protect them from agglomeration. The as-prepared magnetic NPs can be used in biological applications as long as they are transferred into water. Moreover, their supercrystal assemblies have the potential for high density data storage and electronic devices. In addition to small molecules, polymers can also be used as surfactants for the synthesis of ferromagnetic and superparamagnetic NPs by changing the reaction conditions. Therefore, chapter 2 gives an overview on the basic concept of synthesis, surface modification and self-assembly of magnetic nanoparticles. Various examples were used to illustrate the recent work. The hydrophobic Co NPs synthesized with small molecules as surfactants limit their biological applications, which require a hydrophilic or aqueous environment. Surface modification (e.g., ligand exchange) is a general idea for either phase transition or surface-functionalization. Therefore, in chapter 3, a ligand exchange process was conducted to functionalize the surface of Co NPs. PNIPAM is one of the most popular smart polymers and its lower critical solution temperature (LCST) is around 32 °C, with a reversible change in the conformation structure between hydrophobic and hydrophilic. The novel nanocomposites of superparamagnetic Co NPs and thermo-responsive PNIPAM are of great interest. Thus, well-defined superparamagnetic Co NPs were firstly synthesized through the thermolysis of cobalt carbonyl by using OA and TOPO as surfactants. A functional ATRP initiator, containing an amine (as anchoring group) and a 2-bromopropionate group (SI-ATRP initiator), was used to replace the original ligands. This process is rapid and facial for efficient surface functionalization and afterwards the Co NPs can be dispersed into polar solvent DMF without aggregation. FT-IR spectroscopy showed that the TOPO was completely replaced, but a small amount of OA remained on the surface. A TGA measurement allowed the calculation of the grafting density of the initiator as around 3.2 initiator/nm2. Then, the surface-initiated ATRP was conducted for the polymerization of NIPAM on the surface of Co NPs and rendered the nanocomposites water-dispersible. A temperature-dependent dynamic light scattering study showed the aggregation behavior of PNIPAM-coated Co NPs upon heating and this process was proven to be reversible. The combination of superparamagnetic and thermo-responsive properties in these hybrid nanoparticles is promising for future applications e.g. in biomedicine. In chapter 4, the magnetic-field-induced assembly of superparamagnetic cobalt nanoparticles both on solid substrates and at liquid-air interface was investigated. OA- and TOPO-coated Co NPs were synthesized via the thermolysis of cobalt carbonyl and dispersed into either hexane or toluene. The Co NP dispersion was dropped onto substrates (e.g., TEM grid, silicon wafer) and at liquid-air (water-air or ethylene glycol-air) interface. Due to the attractive dipolar interaction, 1-D chains formed in the presence of an external magnetic field. It is known that the concentration and the strength of the magnetic field can affect the assembly behavior of superparamagnetic Co NPs. Therefore, the influence of these two parameters on the morphology of the assemblies was studied. The formed 1-D chains were shorter and flexible at either lower concentration of the Co NP dispersion or lower strength of the external magnetic field due to thermal fluctuation. However, by increasing either the concentration of the NP dispersion or the strength of the applied magnetic field, these chains became longer, thicker and straighter. The reason could be that a high concentration led to a high fraction of short dipolar chains, and their interaction resulted in longer and thicker chains under applied magnetic field. On the other hand, when the magnetic field increased, the induced moments of the magnetic nanoparticles became larger, which dominated over the thermal fluctuation. Thus, the formed short chains connected to each other and grew in length. Thicker chains were also observed through chain-chain interaction. Furthermore, the induced moments of the NPs tended to direct into one direction with increased magnetic field, thus the chains were straighter. In comparison between the assembly on substrates, at water-air interface and at ethylene glycol-air interface, the assembly of Co NPs in hexane dispersion at ethylene glycol-air interface showed the most regular and homogeneous chain structures due to the better spreading of the dispersion on ethylene glycol subphase than on water subphase and substrates. The magnetic-field-induced assembly of superparamagnetic nanoparticles could provide a powerful approach for applications in data storage and electronic devices. Chapter 5 presented the synthesis of superparamagnetic and ferromagnetic cobalt nanoparticles through a dual-stage thermolysis of cobalt carbonyl (Co2(CO)8) by using polystyrene as surfactant. The amine end-functionalized polystyrene surfactants with different molecular weight were prepared via atom transfer radical polymerization technique. The molecular weight determination of polystyrene was conducted by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-ToF) mass spectrometry techniques. The results showed that, when the molecular weight distribution is low (Mw/Mn < 1.2), the measurement by GPC and MALDI-ToF MS provided nearly similar results. For example, the molecular weight of 10600 Da was obtained by MALDI-ToF MS, while GPC gave 10500 g/mol (Mw/Mn = 1.17). However, if the polymer is poly distributed, MALDI-ToF MS cannot provide an accurate value. This was exemplified for a polymer with a molecular weight of 3130 Da measured by MALDI-TOF MS, while GPC showed 2300 g/mol (Mw/Mn = 1.38). The size, size distribution and magnetic properties of the hybrid particles were different by changing either the molecular weight or concentration of the polymer surfactants. The analysis from TEM characterization showed that the size of cobalt nanoparticles stabilized with polystyrene of lower molecular weight (Mn = 2300 g/mol) varied from 12-22 nm, while the size with middle (Mn = 4500 g/mol) and higher molecular weight (Mn = 10500 g/mol) of polystyrene-coated cobalt nanoparticles showed little change. Magnetic measurements exhibited that the small cobalt particles (12 nm) were superparamagnetic, while larger particles (21 nm) were ferromagnetic and assembled into 1-D chains. The grafting density calculated from thermogravimetric analysis showed that a higher grafting density of polystyrene was obtained with lower molecular weight (Mn = 2300 g/mol) than those with higher molecular weight (Mn = 10500 g/mol). Due to the larger steric hindrance, polystyrene with higher molecular weight cannot form a dense shell on the surface of the nanoparticles, which resulted in a lower grafting density. Wide angle X-ray scattering measurements revealed the epsilon cobalt crystalline phases of both superparamagnetic Co NPs coated with polystyrene (Mn = 2300 g/mol) and ferromagnetic Co NPs coated with polystyrene (Mn = 10500 g/mol). Furthermore, a stability study showed that PS-Co NPs prepared with higher polymer concentration and polymer molecular weight exhibited a better stability.}, language = {en} } @article{MachatschekHeuchelLendlein2021, author = {Machatschek, Rainhard Gabriel and Heuchel, Matthias and Lendlein, Andreas}, title = {Thin-layer studies on surface functionalization of polyetherimide}, series = {Journal of materials research : JMR / Materials Research Society}, volume = {37}, journal = {Journal of materials research : JMR / Materials Research Society}, number = {1}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {0884-2914}, doi = {10.1557/s43578-021-00339-7}, pages = {67 -- 76}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Among the high-performance and engineering polymers, polyimides and the closely related polyetherimide (PEI) stand out by their capability to react with nucleophiles under relatively mild conditions. By targeting the phthalimide groups in the chain backbone, post-functionalization offers a pathway to adjust surface properties such as hydrophilicity, solvent resistance, and porosity. Here, we use ultrathin PEI films on a Langmuir trough as a model system to investigate the surface functionalization with ethylene diamine and tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)porphyrin as multivalent nucleophiles. By means of AFM, Raman spectroscopy, and interfacial rheology, we show that hydrolysis enhances the chemical and mechanical stability of ultrathin films and allows for the formation of EDC/NHS-activated esters. Direct amidation of PEI was achieved in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst, resulting in free amine groups rather than cross-linking. When comparing amidation with hydrolysis, we find a greater influence of the latter on material properties.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Fandrich2016, author = {Fandrich, Artur}, title = {Untersuchung des Verhaltens von thermoresponsiven Polymeren auf Elektroden in Interaktion mit biomolekularen Systemen}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-396551}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {111}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Diese Arbeit befasst sich mit der Herstellung und Charakterisierung von thermoresponsiven Filmen auf Goldelektroden durch Fixierung eines bereits synthetisierten thermoresponsiven Polymers. Als Basis f{\"u}r die Entwicklung der responsiven Grenzfl{\"a}che dienten drei unterschiedliche Copolymere (Polymere I, II und III) aus der Gruppe der thermisch schaltbaren Poly(oligo(ethylenglykol)methacrylate). Die turbidimetrischen Messungen der Copolymere in L{\"o}sungen haben gezeigt, dass der Tr{\"u}bungspunkt vom pH-Wert, der Gegenwart von Salzen sowie von der Ionenst{\"a}rke der L{\"o}sung abh{\"a}ngig ist. Nach der Charakterisierung der Polymere in L{\"o}sung wurden Experimente der kovalenten Kopplung der Polymere I bis III an die Oberfl{\"a}che der Gold-Elektroden durchgef{\"u}hrt. W{\"a}hrend bei Polymeren I und II die Ankopplung auf einer Amidverbr{\"u}ckung basierte, wurde bei Polymer III als alternative Methode zur Immobilisierung eine photoinduzierte Anbindung unter gleichzeitiger Vernetzung gew{\"a}hlt. Der Nachweis der erfolgreichen Ankopplung erfolgte bei allen Polymeren elektrochemisch mittels Cyclovoltammetrie und Impedanzspektroskopie in K3/4[Fe(CN)6]-L{\"o}sungen. Wie die Ellipsometrie-Messungen zeigten, waren die erhaltenen Polymer-Filme unterschiedlich dick. Die Ankopplung {\"u}ber Amidverbr{\"u}ckung lieferte d{\"u}nne Filme (10 - 15 nm), w{\"a}hrend der photovernetzte Film deutlich dicker war (70-80 nm) und die darunter liegende Oberfl{\"a}che relativ gut isolierte. Elektrochemische Temperaturexperimente an Polymer-modifizierten Oberfl{\"a}chen in L{\"o}sungen in Gegenwart von K3/4[Fe(CN)6] zeigten, dass auch die immobilisierten Polymere I bis III responsives Temperaturverhalten zeigen. Bei Elektroden mit den immobilisierten Polymeren I und II ist der Temperaturverlauf der Parameterwerte diskontinuierlich - ab einem kritischen Punkt (37 °C f{\"u}r Polymer I und 45 °C f{\"u}r Polymer II) wird zun{\"a}chst langsame Zunahme der Peakstr{\"o}me wird deutlich schneller. Das Temperaturverhalten von Polymer III ist dagegen bis 50 °C kontinuierlich, der Peakstrom sinkt hier durchgehend. Weiterhin wurde mit den auf Polymeren II und III basierten Elektroden deren Anwendung als responsive Matrix f{\"u}r Bioerkennungsreaktionen untersucht. Es wurde die Ankopplung von kleinen Biorezeptoren, TAG-Peptiden, an Polymer II- und Polymer III-modifizierten Elektroden durchgef{\"u}hrt. Das hydrophile FLAG-TAG-Peptid ver{\"a}ndert das Temperaturverhalten des Polymer II-Films unwesentlich, da es die Hydrophilie des Netzwerkes nicht beeinflusst. Weiterhin wurde der Effekt der Ankopplung der ANTI-FLAG-TAG-Antik{\"o}rper an FLAG-TAG-modifizierte Polymer II-Filme untersucht. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Antik{\"o}rper spezifisch an FLAG-TAG-modifiziertes Polymer II binden. Es wurde keine unspezifische Anbindung von ANTI-FLAG-TAG an Polymer II beobachtet. Die Temperaturexperimente haben gezeigt, dass die thermische Restrukturierung des Polymer II-FLAG-TAG-Filmes auch nach der Antik{\"o}rper-Ankopplung noch stattfindet. Der Einfluss der ANTI-FLAG-TAG-Ankopplung ist gering, da der Unterschied in der Hydrophilie zwischen Polymer II und FLAG-TAG bzw. ANTI-FLAG-TAG zu gering ist. F{\"u}r die Untersuchungen mit Polymer III-Elektroden wurde neben dem hydrophilen FLAG-TAG-Peptid das deutlich hydrophobere HA-TAG-Peptid ausgew{\"a}hlt. Wie im Falle der Polymer II Elektrode beeinflusst das gekoppelte FLAG-TAG-Peptid das Temperaturverhalten des Polymer III-Netzwerkes nur geringf{\"u}gig. Die gemessenen Stromwerte sind geringer als bei der Polymer III-Elektrode. Das Temperaturverhalten der FLAG-TAG-Elektrode {\"a}hnelt dem der reinen Polymer III-Elektrode - die Stromwerte sinken kontinuierlich bis die Temperatur von ca. 40 °C erreicht ist, bei der ein Plateau beobachtet wird. Offensichtlich ver{\"a}ndert FLAG-TAG auch in diesem Fall nicht wesentlich die Hydrophilie des Polymer III-Netzwerkes. Das an Polymer III-Elektroden gekoppelte hydrophobe HA-TAG-Peptid beeinflusst dagegen im starken Maße den Quellzustand des Netzwerkes. Die Str{\"o}me f{\"u}r die HA-TAG-Elektroden sind deutlich geringer als die f{\"u}r die FLAG-TAG-Polymer III-Elektroden, was auf geringeren Wassergehalt und dickeren Film zur{\"u}ckzuf{\"u}hren ist. Bereits ab 30 °C erfolgt der Anstieg von Stromwerten, der bei Polymer III- bzw. bei Polymer III-FLAG-TAG-Elektroden nicht beobachtet werden kann. Das gekoppelte hydrophobe HA-TAG-Peptid verdr{\"a}ngt Wasser aus dem Polymer III-Netzwerk, was in der Stauchung des Films bereits bei Raumtemperatur resultiert. Dies f{\"u}hrt dazu, dass der Film im Laufe des Temperaturanstieges kaum noch komprimiert. Die Stromwerte steigen in diesem Fall entsprechend des Anstiegs der temperaturabh{\"a}ngigen Diffusion des Redoxpaares. Diese Untersuchungen zeigen, dass das HA-TAG-Peptid als Ankermolek{\"u}l deutlich besser f{\"u}r eine potentielle Verwendung der Polymer III-Filme f{\"u}r sensorische Zwecke geeignet ist, da es sich deutlich in der Hydrophilie von Polymer III unterscheidet.}, language = {de} }