Kuijpers, Siem (2026) Tunable Softness: A Computational Analysis of Crosslinked Bottlebrush Polymer Networks with Distinct Grafting Patterns. Bachelor's Thesis, Applied Physics.
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Abstract
Bottlebrush polymer networks are a highly promising class of supersoft materials with broad applications in biomedical engineering and soft robotics. While most previous computational studies have assumed monodisperse side chain lengths across the polymer, this study analyses the effects of different side chain grafting patterns on the network topology, crosslink distribution, and mechanical properties of the material. Nine distinct grafting architectures were statically crosslinked and subsequently relaxed and deformed using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations. By analysing both low-density (gel) and high-density (elastomer) systems, the simulations showed that the crosslink distribution is dependent on the grafting pattern. The crosslink density shows an inverse relationship with the local side chain length. Additionally, the grafting architecture significantly influenced the peak tensile stress in low-density gels; particularly, the Cone and Diamond patterns yielded the highest strength. This difference was not observed in the denser system. These findings show that a designed grafting pattern offers a viable option for tuning the mechanical behaviour of supersoft polymer networks.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis) |
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| Supervisor name: | Giuntoli, A. |
| Degree programme: | Applied Physics |
| Thesis type: | Bachelor's Thesis |
| Language: | English |
| Date Deposited: | 08 Jul 2026 14:10 |
| Last Modified: | 08 Jul 2026 14:10 |
| URI: | https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/37406 |
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