Analysis of the end-segment distribution of a polymer at the interface of filler-filled material

The distribution of ends of polymers in a filler-filled material is simulated using self-consistent field method. In our simulation results, segregation of the ends of a polymer can be found at the interface of filler, although the depletion region of the ends also exists within a distance of gyration radius (Rg) from the filler. The sizes and shapes of the filler are affected by the segregation of the ends of a polymer. In the case of small or spherical fillers, the density of the ends of the polymer near the interface of filler increases. These results can be explained by the entropic effect of polymer chain ends. The segregation of ends contributes to the stabilization at the interface of the filler, thus adding the entropic part of the free energy.