Science Paper - Assistant Professor Yu Jing
We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Assistant Professor Yu Jing on the publication of his research paper, entitled “Multivalent counterions diminish the lubricity of polyelectrolyte brushes” in Science.
Abstract
Polyelectrolyte brushes provide wear protection and lubrication in many technical, medical, physiological, and biological applications. Wear resistance and low friction are attributed to counterion osmotic pressure and the hydration layer surrounding the charged polymer segments. However, the presence of multivalent counterions in solution can strongly affect the interchain interactions and structural properties of brush layers. We evaluated the lubrication properties of polystyrene sulfonate brush layers sliding against each other in aqueous solutions containing increasing concentrations of counterions. The presence of multivalent ions (Y3+, Ca2+, Ba2+), even at minute concentrations, markedly increases the friction forces between brush layers owing to electrostatic bridging and brush collapse. Our results suggest that the lubricating properties of polyelectrolyte brushes in multivalent solution are hindered relative to those in monovalent solution.
About the journal
Science has been the centre for important scientific discoveries since its founding in 1880. Today, it continues to publish the very best in research across the scientific disciplines with articles consistently ranked among the highest cited in the world. In addition, Science is a leading outlet for scientific news, commentaries and cutting-edge research. Through its print and online channels, Science reaches a wide readership globally and has an impact factor of 37.205 (2016).
Our heartiest congratulations to Prof Yu on his excellent achievement!
