The importance of understanding factors
that contribute to surface
wettability is highlighted in this new organic chemistry laboratory
experiment, which aims to introduce the application of organic chemistry
at the interface of polymer chemistry and material science. Polydimethylsiloxane
(PDMS), a hydrophobic silicon-based rubber, is polymerized and molded
onto templates of varying roughnesses and textures to introduce topology
that changes surface hydrophilicity. The topological changes are assessed
through optical microscopy imaging, and the wettability is analyzed
by measuring the contact angle using an inexpensive digital camera.
The molds are treated with boiling water which generates hydroxyl
groups on the surface. Successful chemical modification of the polymer
surface is confirmed using attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR-IR)
analysis, and wettability is assessed through contact angle measurement.
Postlab questions focus on the wettability of the physically and chemically
modified surfaces and their potential use as scaffolding for tissue
engineering. This adaptable experiment is designed to reinforce concepts
such as intermolecular forces, introduce polymer structure and synthesis,
showcase polymer applications in biological research, and provide
an introduction to surface wettability in a visually interesting manner.
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