Computer simulation on the self-assembly of associating polymers

We present the results of Monte Carlo simulations of self-assembly in melt of pseudo-block copolymer formed through the association of associating polymer chains with attractive end-groups (sticker sites). Complexities of the phase structures result from these pseudo-block copolymers strongly depend on parameters, such as attractive interaction strength between two stickers and chain length of associating polymers. The weak, intermediate and strong interactions between two stickers lead, respectively, to the macro-separated, disordered and ordered lamellar phase structures. The ordered lamellar phases formed by these pseudo-block copolymers are more stable than that formed by pure diblock copolymers. Pseudo-block copolymers with shorter associating polymer chain prefer to form ordered lamellar phase and that with longer associating chain tend to form disordered phase.