Asymmetric composites

Structurally asymmetric mixtures, such as mixtures of linear polymers with branched polymers or nanoparticles can be used to create novel nanostructures. We are developing a general thermodynamic theory of asymmetric mixtures and testing it by computer simulations and experiments.

Universality of polymer size in various solvents

We found that polymer conformations do not obey the predictions of classical theories. We are developing models that take into account long-range correlations and predict the dependence of polymer size on degree of polymerization.

Block polyampholytes

Block polyampholytes, charged polymers containing acidic and basic blocks, can self-assemble into organized structures. Our aim is to understand the dependence of their conformations and self-organization on composition of blocks, ionic environment, and temperature.

Functionalized nanoparticles

Nanoparticles with surfaces modified by polymers can self-assemble to particular structures under various concentrations. In collaboration with Dr. Kumacheva we are designing experiments to investiage possible structures that could be formed by those nanoparticles and developing thermodynamic theories to describe the mechanisms of the self-assembly process.

Tension amplification in a branched macromolecule

Amplification of tension in molecular bonds can be self-generated in highly branched macromolecules by focusing tension from many arms to a specific strand. We study the tension generated in branched macromolecules with different architectures and design strategy to amplify and focus tension onto a particular bond.