Discussion of polymer chains, polymer solutions, polymer dynamics, surface and interfaces, self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules, intermolecular forces in colloids and polymeric materials, polyelectrolytes, networks and gels. The course will focus on the following topics:
(1) Interfaces and Interactions
1.Van der Waals forces
2.Electrostatic interactions
3.Surface phenomena
(2) Polymer Mixtures
1.Thermodynamics of mixing
2.Polymer chains
3.Polymer solutions
4.Dynamics of polymer chains
(3) Self-Assembly of Amphiphiles
1.Surfactants and micellization
2.Micellar structures
(4) Colloids
1.Dynamic light scattering
2.Stabilization of colloids
(5) Networks and Gels
1.Gelation
2.Rubber elasticity
3.Swelling