| Our studies of the vapor-phase deposition of polymers in the presence of low-vapor pressure liquids have enabled the fabrication of polymer films and polymer particles at the liquid-vapor interface. We have found that the polymer morphology at the liquid-vapor interface depends on the surface tension interactions of the liquid and polymer, the deposition rate, the viscosity of the liquid, and the deposition time. We have performed chemical analysis on the polymer films and developed a novel method for the fabrication of shaped, free-standing polymer films deposited onto liquid substrates from the vapor-phase. We have also studied polymer particle fabrication on liquid surfaces including chemical analysis, particle engulfment, particle growth over time, and the effects of liquid viscosity and polymer molecular weight on the particle size. |
