September 26 – A. Baljon, SDSU: "How does a polymeric film pull away from a surface?" 

We have employed Molecular Dynamics simulations to study the work required to pull polymers from a surface with which they connect through strong specific bonds.  As in experiments, the work increases when the polymer is kept longer in contact with the surface.  Since the number of interfacial bonds does not change during the contact time, the adhesive energy must be related to other factors.  In our simulations we investigate changes in the polymer film during contact and relate these to the observed increase in the work.  Short “movies” of the rupture process will be shown.