The Kinetic Theory of Dilute Solutions of Flexible Polymers: Hydrodynamic Interaction

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent advances in the kinetic theory of dilute polymer solutions, focusing on hydrodynamic interactions and their role in predicting universal viscometric functions in theta solvents.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of the development of molecular theories for dilute polymers, emphasizing hydrodynamic interactions and their impact on rheological predictions.

Findings

Hydrodynamic interactions are crucial for accurate polymer solution modeling.

Refinements in theory have led to universal viscometric functions in theta solvents.

The paper highlights recent progress in non-linear microscopic phenomena treatment.

Abstract

The development of a coherent conceptual basis for the treatment of non-linear microscopic phenomena, such as, hydrodynamic interaction, finite extensibility, excluded volume and internal viscosity, in molecular theories of dilute polymer solutions, is discussed. In particular, recent advances in the treatment of hydrodynamic interaction are reviewed, and the successive refinements which have ultimately led to the prediction of universal viscometric functions in theta solvents are highlighted.