Phase behavior of end-functionalized polymers confined between two surfaces

Using scaling theory, we determine the equilibrium behavior of a melt of functionalized and nonfunctionalized polymers confined between two infinite, planar surfaces, which model clay sheets. The functionalized chains contain two end groups (one at each chain end) that are highly attracted to the surfaces. Through these calculations, we delineate the conditions for the formation of thermodynamically stable polymer/clay mixtures in terms of the end-group adsorption energy, volume fraction of the end-functionalized chains, and polymer chain lengths.