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Sorting ring polymers by knot type with modulated nanochannels.

Mattia Marenda1, Enzo Orlandini2, Cristian Micheletti1

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This study introduces a novel method for sorting ring polymers by their knot type using spatially-modulated nanochannels. Polymer mobility in these channels reveals unique length-dependent behaviors ideal for topological sorting applications.

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Area of Science:

  • Polymer Physics
  • Soft Matter Physics
  • Nanotechnology

Background:

  • Topological complexity in polymers, particularly ring polymers, presents significant challenges in characterization and separation.
  • Understanding polymer dynamics within confined geometries is crucial for developing advanced separation techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose and theoretically investigate a novel method for sorting ring polymers based on their topological (knotted) state.
  • To explore the potential of spatially-modulated nanochannels for achieving topological sorting of polymers.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical modeling of polymer dynamics within confined nanochannels.
  • Application of Fick-Jacobs diffusive theory to analyze polymer mobility.
  • Investigation of the dependence of longitudinal mobility on polymer chain length, topology, and channel geometry.

Main Results:

  • Ring polymer mobility exhibits an oscillatory dependence on chain length for a fixed topology.
  • The relative mobility ranking of different knot types inverts with increasing chain length.
  • A theoretical framework based on diffusive theory successfully rationalizes these complex dynamics.

Conclusions:

  • Spatially-modulated nanochannels offer unique properties for sorting ring polymers by knot topology.
  • The observed length-dependent mobility provides a tunable mechanism for topological separation.
  • The findings can guide the design of microfluidic devices for advanced polymer sorting.