Structure and Physical Properteis of Zwitter Ionic Polyelectrolyte Brushes at Aquesous Interface*

Polymers chemically grafted to the surface of substrates are typical soft interfaces known as polymer brushes. Surfaces covered with polyelectrolyte brushes are attractive because of their potential applications including adhesion, antifouling, biocompatibility and water lubrication systems. In this presentation, our recent researches on control of wettability and adhesion through precise design of polyelectrolyte brush surfaces are presented. We started from fundamental science including precise polyelectrolyte synthesis and solution characterization of polyelectrolytes, characterization of polymer brush at water interfaces, and water structure in polymer brushes. On the basis of these fundamental studies, we have achieved 1) superhydrophilicity, 2) antifouling properties, 3) super-lubricant behavior, 4)intelligent adhesion and 5) cell-surface interaction control.