Self-assembled smectic lamellae of comb-like polymers with pendant-like perfluorocarbon side chains have been extensively used as water-repellent, hydrophobic coating materials, which are characterized by large water contact angles (θ > 120°). By measuring off-specular neutron scattering under defined osmotic pressures, we unraveled that such “apparently hydrophobic” materials interact with water and adapt the inter-lamellar correlation. This suggested that water molecules could be used to optimize the self-assembly of hydrophobic liquid crystalline polymers.
- Akihisa Yamamoto
- Yuji Higaki
- Motomu Tanaka
