Synthesis and Characterization of C₆₀ End-Capped Poly(ethylene oxide) Stars

Abstract

A C60 derivatized triarm poly(ethylene oxide) copolymer was synthesized and characterized. The soluble polymer produced spread at aqueous interfaces to form highly expanded fluid Langmuir monolayers. The onset area of 1300 Å2/arm is likely due to the polymer disrupting cohesion between C60 units. Compression/expansion studies revealed a significant elastic region, beyond which the C60 units condensed, and a compact rigid and irreversible monolayer formed.