The Langmuir properties of a mixed copolysiloxane monolayer

Abstract

A family of linear copolysiloxanes [1-3] substituted with side chains containing carboxylic head groups has been synthesised. The Langmuir properties of the mixed monolayer at the water-air interface has been studied using a single layer Langmuir trough. The area per molecule for the mixed monolayer is calculated theoretically and experimentally. This study has not only shown that there is an excellent agreement between theoretical and experimental values, but has also shown that this mixed monolayer at the water-air interface can be transferred as a monolayer onto a solid substrate.