Work

Threading Dynamics of Ring Polymers in a Gel

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: We perform large scale three-dimensional molecular dynamics simulations of unlinked and unknotted ring polymers diffusing through a background gel, here a three-dimensional cubic lattice. Taking advantage of this architecture, we propose a new method to unambiguously identify and quantify inter-ring threadings (penetrations) and to relate these to the dynamics of the ring polymers. We find that both the number and the persistence time of the threadings increase with the length of the chains, ultimately leading to a percolating network of inter-ring penetrations. We discuss the implications of these findings for the possible emergence of a topological jammed state of very long rings.

Source: ACS Macro Letters

DOI: 10.1021/mz500060c

Authors: Davide Michieletto, Davide Marenduzzo, Enzo Orlandini, Gareth P. Alexander, Matthew S. Turner

Institutions: University of Warwick, University of Edinburgh, University of Padua

Language: English

Topic: Material Dynamics and Properties

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,500

Funder: Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council