Large-scale bridging mechanics

Chapter 5 considers the connection between the universal large scale dynamics discussed first and the local specific dynamics discussed in the second step. The dynamics at intermediate length scales bridges the two and we will address the leading mechanism limiting the universal dynamics in flexible polymers. 

Small amounts of polymer may cause bridges between particles. This mechanism of flocculation is used on a large scale for removing fine particles from water. 

While such a device has yet to be constructed, Debreczeny and co-workers have synthesized and studied a linear D-A, -A2 triad suitable for implementation in such a device.11641 In this system, compound 6, a 4-aminonaphthalene monoimide (AN I) electron donor is excited selectively with 400 nm laser pulses. Electron transfer from the excited state of ANI to Ai, naphthalene-1,8 4,5-diimide (NI), occurs across a 2,5-dimethylphenyl bridge with x = 420 ps and a quantum yield of 0.95. The dynamics of charge separation and recombination in these systems have been well characterized.11651 Spontaneous charge shift to A2, pyromellitimide (PI), is thermodynamically uphill and does not occur. The mechanism for switching makes use of the large absorption cross-section of the NI- anion radical at 480 nm, (e = 28,300). A second laser pulse at 480 nm can selectively excite this chromophore and provide the necessary energy to move the electron from NI- to PI. These systems do not rely on electrochemical oxidation-reduction reactions at an electrode. Thus, switching occurs on a subpicosecond time scale. 

The selection of the contributions was among others guided by the concern not to make the gap between the different scales too large. The reader will not be confronted with quantum mechanics at one side of the spectrum nor with chemical plants or even the environment on the other side. Bridging the gap... 

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