Self-consistent field theories for complex fluids

Abstract

Recent developments in off-lattice self-consistent field theories for inhomogeneous complex fluids are reviewed. Particular emphasis is given to the treatment of intermolecular interactions and compressibility, to the role of fluctuations, and to the discussion of the coarse-graining length which is inherent to the theory. Valuable insight can be gained from the comparison of self-consistent field calculations with Monte Carlo simulations. Finally, some applications of the theory to orientational properties of polymers and copolymers at interfaces, and to the phase behavior of amphiphiles at surfaces, are presented.