Melts of semiflexible diblock copolymer

Melts of semiflexible AB diblock copolymers are studied using the wormlike chain model and self-consistent-field theory. The diblocks considered here are symmetric in composition and in A- and B-block flexibility. Under these conditions, the microstructure formed is lamellar. We find that an increase in molecular rigidity moves the order–disorder transition from χN=10.495 for Gaussian chains to χN=6.135 for rigid rods. In the ordered state, rigidity has little effect on the exponents that describe the scaling of the domain spacing and of the interfacial width with molecular weight. However, the proportionality constants are significantly affected. The spatial and orientational distribution of segments in the ordered microstructure is examined for a selection of conditions.