Polymer behavior as a research area examines how polymeric materials respond to external and internal stimuli across multiple length and time scales, integrating polymer physics, chemistry, and materials science. It encompasses the study of chain conformation, segmental dynamics, entanglements, and relaxation processes, as well as phase behavior, crystallization, glass transition, and viscoelasticity in melts, solutions, gels, and solid states. Researchers investigate how molecular architecture (e.g., linear, branched, crosslinked, block copolymers), interactions, and processing conditions govern mechanical, rheological, thermal, and transport properties, using theoretical models, simulations, and experiments to predict and tailor macroscopic performance from molecular-level structure and dynamics.
Polysiloxane materials, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based elastomers, exhibit a self-healing capability by the introduction of silanolate (Si–O–) groups. This ability stems from their dynamic siloxane (Si–O–Si) bonds, ...
Nanomaterials
Apr 1, 2025
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36
In a crowded room, we naturally move slower than in an empty space. Surprisingly, worms can show the exact opposite behavior: In an environment with randomly scattered obstacles, they tend to move faster when there are more ...
Soft Matter
Mar 27, 2025
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31
LMU researchers have investigated how cationic polymers organize on a molecular level when transporting RNA drugs.
Bio & Medicine
Nov 27, 2024
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34
Electrons spin even without an electric charge and this motion in condensed matter constitutes spin current, which is attracting a great deal of attention for next-generation technology such as memory devices. An Osaka Metropolitan ...
Condensed Matter
Oct 30, 2024
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49
In a recent breakthrough, researchers have utilized a one-step tension-assisted twisting (TAT) method to fabricate bacterial cellulose (BC) macrofibers with exceptional strength and moisture responsiveness, paving the way ...
Bio & Medicine
Oct 7, 2024
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51
A recently developed block copolymer could help push the limits of integration and miniaturization in semiconductor manufacturing, report scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) and Tokyo Ohka Kogyo (TOK). ...
Nanomaterials
Aug 29, 2024
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105
RNA therapy with polymer nanoparticles is considered a promising approach for the treatment of various illnesses. It involves the use of polymers as "nanocarriers" to transport RNA drugs precisely to the correct target cells. ...
Bio & Medicine
Jul 15, 2024
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79
Nanoparticles have a wide variety of applications, from drug delivery to electronics to air purification. Their small size and tunable properties make them particularly valuable for technological advancements and scientific ...
Nanomaterials
Jul 12, 2024
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407
A new theory has finally deciphered the physical mechanisms of fracture in soft materials. This discovery could soon lead to new, defect-free materials that are more resistant and durable as well as environmentally friendly. ...
Soft Matter
Jul 3, 2024
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174
Knitting, the age-old craft of looping and stitching natural fibers into fabrics, has received renewed attention for its potential applications in advanced manufacturing. Far beyond their use for garments, knitted textiles ...
General Physics
Jun 4, 2024
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