Theory of nematic systems of semiflexible polymers. II. Chains of finite length in the bulk

The statistical theory of nematic systems of semiflexible polymers is extended to polymer chains of finite length in the bulk. Isotropic-nematic transition temperature, entropy change, orientational order, and conformational order at the transition are computed as a function of chain flexibility and chain length, using the new worm-like chain model with limiting curvature developed recently. The theory can cover a wide range of chain flexibility and its results converge to those of the theory of rod-like particles in the limit of completely rigid chains. Absolute stability of the nematic phase at all temperatures is predicted within suitable ranges of chain flexibility and chain length. © 1984 American Institute of Physics.