Bi-layer formation of imidazole-modified ethyl(hydroxyethyl)cellulose at a hydrophobic surface as monitored by QCM-D

The adsorption behaviour of ethyl(hydroxyethyl)cellulose chemically modified with imidazole (Im-EHEC) at hydrophobic surfaces has been studied with QCM-D. The very slow adsorption isotherm was due to a continuous polymer film reconfiguration and exchange of different sized polymers. The thickness of the film was about 30 nm. The polymers adsorbed Cu2+ ions into the film from a CuCl2 solution and a bi-layer was formed when Im-EHEC was added a second time. The second polymer film was only 7 nm thick but highly viscoelastic. After rinsing with water the metal ions was flushed away and the second Im-EHEC layer was released. The imidazole modification of EHEC enables interaction with transition metal ions and opens up for new applications for cellulose based materials.

A new way to create polymer bi-layers. The polymers are chemically bound by the complex formation of imidazole and copper ions.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide