Neutron reflection annealing time

Fig. 12. Interface width a as a function of annealing time x during initial stages of interdiffusion of PS(D)/PS(H) [95]. Data points are obtained by a fit with error function profiles of neutron reflectivity curves as shown in Fig. 11. Different symbols correspond to different samples. The interface width a0 prior to annealing is also indicated (T) and is subtracted quadratically from the data (a = [

The time dependence of the early stages of polymer interdiffusion at interfaces is indicative of the diffusion process. The normal approach to study such interdiffusion by neutron reflectivity is to use an anneal/quench cycle where the sample is heated for a given time above the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer, then quenched rapidly to room temperature, after which the reflectivity profile is measured. This has proved to be highly effective for a number of systems, but is difficult to apply when Tg is room temperature, or for small molecule ingress into a higher molecular weight polymer layer. 

Figure 12.15 Ripple experiment results. Concentration profiles obtained from neutron reflection experiments are shown at several annealing times. Top profiles from 10 to 450 min. Bottom profiles from 450 to 1830 min. Here, Tbo 21 min and td = 1860 min.

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