Visualizing the Orientation of Single Polymers Induced by Spin- Coating

The orientation of chains within polymeric materials influences their electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. While many techniques can infer the orientation distribution of a bulk ensemble, it is challenging to determine this information at the single-chain level, particularly in an environment of otherwise identical polymers. Here, we use single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) to visualize the directions of chains within spin-coated polymer films. We find a strong relationship between shear force and the degree and direction of orientation, and additionally, we reveal the effects of chain length and solvent evaporation rate. This work utilizes single-chain resolution to observe the important, though often overlooked, property of chain orientation in the common fabrication process of spin-coating.

Automated summary

The orientation of chains within polymeric materials is important for their properties, and single-molecule localization microscopy is used to visualize chain directions in spin-coated polymer films. The study reveals a strong relationship between shear force and chain orientation, as well as the effects of chain length and solvent evaporation rate.