Polymerization of an Elaidic Acid Langmuir Film Prepared on a Terbium-Containing Subphase

The UV-induced polymerization of an elaidic acid Langmuir film prepared on a terbium-containing subphase has been studied. The polymerization caused changes in pressure/area isotherms. The irradiated film in its more condensed state is in a liquid phase while the monomer film is in a solid phase. The dynamics of the irradiated films was investigated by following the evolution of the film area at a constant pressure. For the longer irradiation times, an expansion of the film area was observed. Scanning force microscopy and IR spectroscopy have been used to study the monolayer after its transfer onto a solid support. IR spectroscopic measurements indicated the presence of an oxygen-containing copolymer. Scanning force microscopy images revealed a modification of the structure of the film after irradiation. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.