Synthesis of polystyrene living nanoparticles (LNPs) in water: Via nano-confined free radical polymerization
Journal
Polymer Chemistry
Journal Volume
11
Journal Issue
46
Pages
7349-7353
Date Issued
2020
Author(s)
Abstract
Living nanoparticles (LNPs), analogs of living polymers, are particles that contain active species for further polymerization. We created these novel nanoparticles via free radical polymerization of styrene encapsulated within the hydrophobic interior of a unimolecular micelle (UM) in water. The resultant particles contain mono-disperse polystyrenes with active free radicals. The livingness of the particles was verified by the reaction with radical scavengers and their capability to initiate further polymerization of either water-insoluble or water-soluble monomers. This creation of LNPs is unprecedented and opens a new technique for polymer synthesis using particle initiators. ? The Royal Society of Chemistry.
Other Subjects
Atom transfer radical polymerization;Free radicals;Living polymerization;Micelles;Nanoparticles;Polystyrenes;Styrene;Synthesis (chemical);Active species;Living polymers;Mono-disperse;Polymer synthesis;Radical scavengers;Unimolecular micelles;Water soluble monomers;Free radical polymerization
Type
journal article