Tuning the Density Profile of Dendritic Polyelectrolytes

Using Monte Carlo simulations, we demonstrate that the shape of the intramolecular density profile of dendritic polyelectrolytes in solution can be tailored by varying the ionic strength of the solvent. Further, we find that a reversible transition between a “dense core” and a “dense shell” dendritic structure may be observed as the ionic strength is cycled from high to low. We present the necessary conditions in terms of salt concentration and various molecular variables such as generation number, spacer length, and number of charges, for realizing the potential of dendrimers as hosts in controlled-release and similar applications.