Molecular dynamics study of polyester surfaces and fullerene particles in aqueous environment

We present a molecular dynamics study of the interaction of fullerene (C60) with polyester surfaces in water. Three different polyester surfaces are studied, including untreated polyester (Polyester), fluorine-modified polyester (Polyester75F), and hydroxyl-modified polyester (Polyester75OH). Results indicate that in the absence of any surface modification, the fullerene particle is drawn down onto the polyester, even for a significant initial depth of water separating the particle and the surface. However, the addition of hydroxyl or fluorine groups on the surface of the polymer leads to a stronger interaction between water and surface atoms and, when combined with structural features such as rigidity and surface roughness, can reduce adhesion of the C60 particle in water.