Behavior of Poly(σ-aklyl α, L-glutamate)-Polyethylene Oxide Copolymer at the Air/Interface

Abstract Side chain polyglutamate-poly(ethylene oxide) (PALG-PEO) diblock copolymers were synthesized by side chain glutamete NCA (N-carboxy anhydride). These molecules form monolayer at the air/water interface due to the amphiphilic character of the hydrophobic side chains of the rod and hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide). Conformational change of the poly(ethylene oxide) and topology of the rodlike polymer have been studied by surface area-surface pressure isotherm. At low density PEO block contributes surface pressure and generates pancake to blush-like transition. PALG block is laid down at the air/water interface and contributes the high surface pressure. We have observed two different phase transitions that depend on the size of the rod and the area of the absorbed PEO block at the air/water interface.