9417523 Composto The purpose of this U.S.-Czech research project between Dr. Russell Composto of the University of Pennsylvania and Dr. Petr Vlcek of Czech Academy of Sciences' Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry is to synthesize novel polymeric materials to study polymer adsorption at the polymer/solid interface. To do this, the researchers will use anionic-living and group-transfer polymerization techniques to prepare block copolymers and end- functionalized polymers which bind to oxide surfaces. These specialty polymers will be blended with a matrix polymer and spun-cast on an inorganic substrate. The composition profile, amount absorbed, grafting density of the adsorbed species, and the strength of adsorption will be measured. Results are expected to contribute to our basic knowledge of polymer adhesion and may have relevance to technological problems in the coatings industry. This project in materials research fulfills the program objective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling experts in the United States and Eastern Europe to combine complementary talents and share research resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence.
