Macromolecules, Vol.41, No.20, 7722-7728, 2008
Self-Organization in Solutions of Stiff-Chain Amphiphilic Macromolecules
Conformational properties of amphiphilic stiff-chain macromolecules in concentrated solutions in poor solvent have been Studied via computer modeling. We have found that the conformational state of macromolecules ill such systems depends oil the macromolecular Stiffness and oil the way the Solution hits been prepared. Thus, if the concentration of globules increased from a very diluted Solution. the globules remain stable, independent of the macromolecular stiffness, and do not aggregate even in concentrated Solutions. Oil the other hand, if the solvent quality is gradually decreased in I solution with a concentration much larger than that of a semidilute solution, then relatively flexible chains form separate globules. whereas semirigid macromolecules tend to aggregate and form braid-like conformations. The results obtained agree with the published experimental data and call he used for directed synthesis of macromolecules modelin, the behavior of biopolymers.