Small-angle neutron scattering study of Pluronic F68 tri-block copolymer solutions

Concentration and temperature dependence of the structure of Pluronic F68 tri-block copolymer in heavy water solutions is investigated in the concentration range 5-100 g/dm(3) at 20, 40 and 60 degrees C. At 20 degrees C the chains form random coils. At 40 degrees C and at concentrations higher than 10g/dm(3), part of the molecules are in aggregated form but the monomers still dominate in the solution. At 60 degrees C the aggregation is predominant, only a small amount of polymer remains in monomeric state. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.