Collapse of sodium polyacrylate chains in calcium salt solutions

The sodium salt of polyacrylic acid (NaPA) precipitates in the presence of Ca2+-ions. This phase behaviour can be represented by a phase diagram where the critical NaPA concentration is plotted versus the critical Ca2+ concentration resulting in a straight line as a phase boundary. The location of this phase boundary is influenced by the presence of an inert monovalent salt like NaCl. The present contribution focuses on the coil dimensions of NaPA chains in dilute aqueous solution corresponding to the one phase region of such a phase diagram. A variety of parameters with which the sire and shape of the polyelectrolyte drains can be modulated are revealed. Approaching the phase boundary by decreasing the NaPA concentration at a constant Ca2+ content leads to a collapse of the NaPA chains. Combined static and dynamic light scattering suggests a compact spherical shape as the final state of this transition, both in 0.1 M NaCl and in 0.01 M NaCl. In the lower NaCl, concentration, indication is presented for the existence of a cigar or pearl necklace like intermediate. Most strikingly the collapsed chains can be reexpanded by increasing the concentration of inert NaCl at constant content of NaPA and Ca2+. Clearly, excessive Na+-ions displace the Ca2+-ions from the NaPA chains.