Glass transition of nano-sized single chain globules

Nano-sized polymer globules were prepared by atomization spraying and drying of a dilute polymer solution. Transmission electron microscope measurements indicated that the particle of the globules matched with that of polymer single chains. Thermal analysis showed that the nano-sized particles exhibit a significantly higher glass transition temperature (Tg) than does the corresponding bulk polymer. This discovery cannot be explained by kinetic theories. Entropy analysis does indicate that polymer chains in the globular state should have a higher Tg.