Structure–Function Relationships in Sequence-Controlled Copolymers for Rare Earth Element Chelation
In this publication led by Abigail Knight, an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at UNC-Chapel Hill and a SIBYLS SAXS user, the authors report on systematic research into amphiphilic polymer chelators, specifically examining how composition and patterning influence binding affinity and selectivity for rare earth elements (REEs). Using complementary dynamic light scattering (DLS) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements conducted at SIBYLS beamline 12.3.1, the authors demonstrated that both polymer and monomer architecture modulate metal-induced conformational changes. Furthermore, they found that multichain assembly behavior emerges once critical hydrophobic thresholds are met.
These findings help establish design principles linking polymer sequence and structure to binding performance. This work will guide the development of macromolecular chelators with enhanced affinity and selectivity for applications in separations, sensing, and catalysis.