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Mechanisms of alignment of lamellar-forming block copolymer under shear flow

journal contribution
posted on 2025-01-30, 11:11 authored by Marco PinnaMarco Pinna, Javier DiazJavier Diaz, Christopher Denison, Andrei ZvelindovskyAndrei Zvelindovsky, Ignacio PagonabarragaIgnacio Pagonabarraga

The potential applications of block copolymer thin films, utilising their self-assembly capabilities, are enhanced when achieving long-range ordering. In this study we explain the experimental alignment of lamellae under shear flow findings [S. Pujari et al. Soft Matter, 2012, 8, 5258] and classify the alignment mechanisms based on shear rate and segregation, uncovering similarities to the systems subjected to electric fields, suggesting a common pathway of lamellae orientations. However, the presence of thin films surfaces introduces distinct features in the lamellae orientation under shear compared to electric fields. Notably, we observe the emergence of a three-dimensional rotation alongside the conventional two-dimensional rotation. Furthermore, a transient regime has been identified within the melting mechanism, which confirms the existence of the checkboard pattern proposed by Schneider et al. [Macromolecules, 2018, 51, 4642]. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of block copolymer alignments and shed light on the intricate interplay between external fields and the lamellar structure.

History

School affiliated with

  • School of Mathematics and Physics (Research Outputs)
  • College of Health and Science (Research Outputs)

Publication Title

Soft Matter

Volume

21

Issue

3

Pages/Article Number

476-487

Publisher

The Royal Society of Chemistry

ISSN

1744-6848

eISSN

1744-6848

Date Submitted

2025-10-23

Date Accepted

2024-12-03

Date of First Publication

2024-12-16

Date of Final Publication

2025-01-21

Open Access Status

  • Open Access

Date Document First Uploaded

2025-01-06

Will your conference paper be published in proceedings?

  • N/A