Temperature-programmed synthesis of micron-sized multi-responsive microgels

A new synthetic protocol for the synthesis of large diameter (2.5 to 5 μm), temperature-, and pH-responsive microgels via aqueous surfactant-free radical precipitation copolymerization is presented. We have found that in this size range, which is not typically attainable using traditional dispersion...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Colloid and polymer science 2009-03, Vol.287 (3), p.277-285
Main Authors: Meng, Zhiyong, Smith, Michael H., Lyon, L. Andrew
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Characterization and Evaluation of Materials
Chemistry
Chemistry and Materials Science
Complex Fluids and Microfluidics
Copolymerization
Dispersions
Exact sciences and technology
Food Science
Microgels
Nanotechnology and Microengineering
Nucleation
Organic polymers
Original Contribution
Photon correlation spectroscopy
Physical Chemistry
Physicochemistry of polymers
Polymer Sciences
Polymerization
Preparation, kinetics, thermodynamics, mechanism and catalysts
Ramps
Soft and Granular Matter
Synthesis
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Description
Summary:A new synthetic protocol for the synthesis of large diameter (2.5 to 5 μm), temperature-, and pH-responsive microgels via aqueous surfactant-free radical precipitation copolymerization is presented. We have found that in this size range, which is not typically attainable using traditional dispersion polymerization approaches, excellent monodispersity and size control are achieved when the synthesis employs a programmed temperature ramp from 45 to 65 °C during the nucleation stage of the polymerization. A combined kinetic and thermodynamic hypothesis for large particle formation under these conditions is described. Particle sizes, volume phase transition temperatures, and pH responsivity were characterized by particle tracking and photon correlation spectroscopy to illustrate their similar behavior to particles made via more traditional routes. These particles have been enabling for various studies in our group where microscopic visualization of the particles is required.
ISSN:0303-402X
1435-1536
DOI:10.1007/s00396-008-1986-8