Langmuir, Vol.13, No.6, 1840-1843, 1997
Morphology Characterization in Multicomponent Macromolecular Systems Using Scanning Probe Phase Microscopy
A novel scanning probe microscopy, phase imaging, has been used to image blends of polyethylene (PE) and poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). By providing not only a topographical map of the surface but also information on material properties, this technique has allowed us to readily distinguish the individual components within the blend. We further illustrate its utility by investigating the role of interfacial modifier on the behavior of this incompatible blend system. With addition of a PDMS/PE copolymer, phase imaging readily shows greater interfacial widths.
Keywords:ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPE