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Poly(L-lysine) and Clay Nanocomposite with Desired Matrix Secondary Structure: Effects of Polypeptide Molecular Weight

Journal Article · · Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer Physics
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/polb.21027· OSTI ID:930416
Nanocomposites (NC) were formed using cationic poly(L-lysine) (PLL), a semicrystalline polypeptide, that was reinforced by sodium montmorillonite (MMT) clay via solution intercalation technique. By varying solution conditions such as pH, temperature, and polypeptide concentration in the presence of clay platelets, the secondary structure of PLL was controllably altered into {alpha}-helical, {beta}-sheet, and random coil. The high molecular weight polypeptide shows a strong propensity to fold into the {beta}-sheet structure when cast as films, irrespective of the initial secondary structure in solution. Nanocomposite local morphology confirms intercalated MMT platelets with PLL over a wide range of compositions.
Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) National Synchrotron Light Source
Sponsoring Organization:
Doe - Office Of Science
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-98CH10886
OSTI ID:
930416
Report Number(s):
BNL--81148-2008-JA
Journal Information:
Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer Physics, Journal Name: Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer Physics Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 45; ISSN JPBPEM; ISSN 0887-6266
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English