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 test it by computer simulations and experiments.(more...)

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. (more...)

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.(more...) (review)

Functionalized nanoparticles

Inorganic nanoparticles carrying polymers exhibit similar behavior to block copolymers which can self-assemble into ordered structures. We study the dependence of resulting structures on polymer concentration, solution composition, as well as solution temperature. (more...)

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.