4(%3)3 - Ecole nationale supérieure de chimie de Montpellier

over time due to the progressive compression of the micelles (Figure – 2.16 barleads to a clear decrease of the pore size and a higher retention is observed as only D and E couldsignificantly cross the membrane (Figure – 2.16bar, where only E crosses the membrane (Figure – 2.16c). Finallybar leads to a clearincrease of the pore size and any retention may be observed (Figure – 2.16d).Figure – 2.16: Size Exclusion Chromatogram obtained for the permeates after PEG filtration experiments at differentpressures.These filtration tests concur well with the findings obtained using fluid flow resistingmeasurements and AFM images thereby not only establishing the progressive compression of themembrane albeit in a reversible manner but also pressure driven “gating” capability of the membrane.2.8 SELF-HEALINGIt could be presumed that by virtue of its dynamic behavior, a self-healing ability of this porousmaterial would be highlighted at macroscopic level. Currently, the scope of self-healing materials isconfined largely and specifically to dense systems 34-37 . Developing a self-healing porous material is63