Interaction of dendronized polymeric nanocomposites with isomeric cyclohexanediols

Dendronized poly(diethylaminoethyl methacrylamide) (PEAM) was studied in blends containing isomeric cyclic dialcohols. Monomers and polymers were characterized by spectroscopic measurements. The phase behaviors of blends of PEAM with 1,2-, 1,3- and 1,4-cyclohexanediols (1,2-CHD, 1,3-CHD and 1,4-CHD, respectively) were established. Transparent films of the blends exhibited a single glass-transition temperature (T_g). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed the temperature at which the polymer releases the small molecules. UV-vis spectra of 1,3-CHD and 1,4-CHD derivatives showed an isosbestic point that indicated the association of the alcohols. FT-IR measurements showed shifts in several absorption bands. The results were analyzed in terms of the side-chain structure and the interactions involved. AFM measurements revealed differences between the polymer and the blends. Compatibilization of blends of PEAM/CHDs occurred via the formation of hydrogen bonds, although hydrophobic interactions could not be disregarded.