A new scaling theory of semiflexible polymer phases near attracting surfaces

Abstract

The finite chain backbone stiffness in polymers gives rise to a number of novel behaviors described on short length scales. We analyze the semiflexible polymer phases near surfaces using a new scaling theory, incorporating the surface attraction in terms of its range and depth. It is found that the phase diagram includes five different phases: desorbed, weakly-adsorbed with both isotropic and nematic-type distribution of polymer segments inside the potential well, strongly-adsorbed states with the isotropic and nematic-type distribution. We draw conclusions on the orders of the transitions between the phases.