Block copolymer supramolecular assemblies functionalized with magnetic nanowires

• Applicants: Dr. Heike Schlörb; Professor Dr. Manfred Stamm
• Subject Area: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics ; Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
• Term: from 2006 to 2011
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 26191675

Aim of this project is the functionalisation of ordered nanostructures (dots, wires, tubes) obtained via self-organization of block copolymer systems, which will be filled with magnetic and electric active materials by electro-deposition. Starting point is the self-assembly of amphi-philic diblock copolymers with low molar mass additives by microphase separation, where struc-ture is controlled by selective hydrogen bonding. In the running project it has been shown that this supramolecular block copolymer approach is a versatile, fast and effective way for nanomembrane formation. Future work will focus on the improvement of long range ordering, further reduction of the diameter and variation of the aspect ratio of obtained nano-objects. In a second step, these templates will be filled by electrodeposition with magnetic metals and alloys (Ni, Fe, CoPt, FePt), and electroconductive polymers (polythiophene, polyaniline). This part includes the analysis of the deposition process constrained by the nanotemplate and the optimisa-tion of the deposition process for homogeneous filling with the magnetic material. Magnetic and electrical properties will be analyzed in detail in order to understand the complex role of anisotropies and interactions in this well defined nanoscale geometry. The application potential of these templates for magnetic recording will be evaluated. The incorporation of a new group with experience on magnetic and elctrical aspects of nanowires enhances the capabilities of the existing team and opens new routes in this area.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 1165: Nanowires and Nanotubes: From Controlled Synthesis to Functions
• Participating Person: Privatdozent Dr. Sebastian Fähler