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Preparation of Light-responsive Membranes by a Combined Surface Grafting and Postmodification Process
Published on: March 21, 2014
Preparation and characterization of light-switchable polymer networks attached to solid substrates
Helge Schenderlein1, Agnieszka Voss, Robert W Stark
1Ernst-Berl-Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Chair for Macromolecular & Paper Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Petersenstrasse 22, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|March 7, 2013
Summary
Surface-attached polymer networks with light-responsive spiropyran groups were created. These networks enable fast, controllable switching of surface properties using UV and visible light.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Surface-attached polymer networks offer tunable properties for various applications.
- Light-responsive molecules can be integrated into polymers to create switchable materials.
- Nitrospiropyran and benzophenone are key photo-responsive and photo-crosslinking moieties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and characterize surface-attached polymer networks with light-responsive spiropyran groups.
- To investigate the light-induced switching behavior of these polymer networks.
- To explore the potential for controlling surface properties with light.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of functional polymers via free radical copolymerization, incorporating nitrospiropyran and benzophenone groups.
- Preparation of polymer films on silicon and glass surfaces using spin-coating and UV-induced cross-linking.
- Characterization of film thickness and light-responsive switching behavior in dry and swollen states.
Main Results:
- Successfully prepared surface-attached polymer networks with tunable spiropyran content and film thickness (nm to μm).
- Demonstrated reversible switching of spiropyran function using UV and visible light in both dry and aqueous environments.
- Observed faster switching kinetics in water compared to the dry state.
Conclusions:
- Surface-attached polymer networks with light-responsive spiropyran groups can be fabricated with controlled properties.
- These materials enable fast and spatially controlled switching of surface chemical and optical characteristics.
- The integration of light-responsive moieties offers a promising route for advanced surface engineering.
