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

Abstract

A C 60 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 Å 2 /arm is likely due to the polymer disrupting cohesion between C 60 units. Compression/expansion studies revealed a significant elastic region, beyond which the C 60 units condensed, and a compact rigid and irreversible monolayer formed.