Simulation on Pore Formation from Polymer Solution at Surface in Contact with Solid Substrate via Thermally Induced...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Thermally-induced phase separation (TIPS) is a crucial method for creating porous polymer structures.
• Controlling surface morphology is essential for tailoring material properties in membrane technology.
• Understanding the interplay between polymer solutions and solid surfaces is vital for process optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the formation of porous polymer structures at solid-liquid interfaces during thermally-induced phase separation (TIPS).
• To elucidate the influence of solid surface compatibility on surface porosity in polymer solutions.
• To provide insights for designing membranes with enhanced surface porosity via TIPS.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a phase field model to simulate pore formation in poly(methyl methacrylate)/cyclohexanol solutions.
• Analyzing the effects of varying polymer-solvent-solid surface compatibilities on porous structure development.
• Investigating both bulk and surface pore formation mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Surface porosity is reduced when the compatibility between the polymer-rich phase and the solid surface is either very high or very low.
• Optimal surface porosity is achieved when the solid surface exhibits moderate compatibility with both the polymer and the solvent.
• Solid surface compatibility is a critical factor determining the degree of surface porosity.

Conclusions:

• The compatibility between the solid surface and the polymer solution dictates the resulting surface porosity during TIPS.
• Achieving optimal compatibility is essential for maximizing surface porosity in polymer membranes.
• Findings offer valuable guidance for designing coagulation bath components in membrane preparation processes to achieve high surface porosity.