Synthesis with Single Macromolecules
Covalent Connection between a Neutral Dendronized Polymer and Polyelectrolyte Chains as well as Graphene Edges
Single chains of a neutral, dendronized polymer with peripheral azide groups (PG3A) are co-deposited onto molecularly modified graphite substrates with a positively charged dendronized polymer (PG2) as well as with negatively charged plasmid dsDNA. PG3A is also prepared near graphite step-edges. Single PG3A chains are moved with a scanning force microscope tip, into close contact with either of the two polyelectrolytes, as well as the step-edge at predetermined positions. Treating these structures in situ with UV light leads to photochemically induced cross-linking between the PG3A chains carrying azide groups and PG2, dsDNA, and graphite step-edges, respectively, which is proven by mechanically challenging the welding points by pulling on the molecules with the SFM-tip.
J. Barner, R. Al-Hellani, A.D. Schlüter, J.P. Rabe
Macromol. Rapid Commun. 31 (2010) 362-367
DOI: 10.1002/marc.200900438