Title | Amplification of tension in branched macromolecules |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2009 |
Authors | SV Panyukov, SS Sheiko, and M Rubinstein |
Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Date Published | 01/2009 |
Abstract | We propose a method for the design of branched macromolecules that are capable of building up high tension ( approximately nN) in their covalent bonds without applying an external force. The tension is self-generated due to repulsion between branches and depends on the molecular architecture leading to amplification and focusing of tension in specific bonds. The simplest architecture is a pom-pom composed of a linear spacer and two z-arm stars at its ends resulting in z-fold tension amplification. Adsorption of those macromolecules on a substrate results in further increase in tension as compared to molecules in solution. |
DOI | 10.1103/PhysRevLett.102.148301 |
Short Title | Physical Review Letters |