Comb-branched polymers: Monte Carlo simulation and scaling

The Monte Carlo simulation technique (the bond fluctuation model) has been used for the study of the equilibrium conformations of comb-branched polymers consisting of a long flexible main chain and side chains grafted at a regular separation onto the main chain. The solvent has been supposed to be good (athermal) for the main and side chains. The global conformation and the gyration radius of the polymer, as well as the local conformational structure of the comb, have been analyzed as functions of the length of the side chains and spacers. The effect of induced rigidity of the comb due to the interaction between side chains has been observed. We have found the results of the simulation to be in reasonable agreement with the predictions of the scaling theory of comb-branched polymers.