In situ cross-linking in RAFT-mediated emulsion polymerization: Reshaping the preparation of cross-linked block copolymer nano-objects by polymerization-induced self-assembly

Synthesis of low glass transition temperature worms comprising a poly(styrene-stat-n-butyl acrylate) core segment via polymerization-induced self-assembly in RAFT aqueous emulsion polymerization

“…Introduction of a divinyl crosslinker at t = 0 h (Method (i)) is the most convenient method without additional steps, however, as reported previously it often led to formation of spherical micelles by limiting chain mobility during PISA. 62,63 However, Dai et al 54 and Cao et al 64 recently reported the synthesis of crosslinked vesicles by introducing ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) at t = 0 h. Previous studies have shown that Method (ii) provides a more efficient way to crosslink worms/vesicles by delaying the introduction of crosslinker once the desired morphology has been formed, which allows morphological transitions during PISA. 24,[65][66][67] In the present work, the results illustrate the commonly used crosslinking Method (ii) as well as Method (i) can efficiently crosslink worms without sacrificing the worm morphology.…”

Synthesis and derivatization of epoxy-functional sterically-stabilized diblock copolymer spheres in non-polar media: does the spatial location of the epoxy groups matter?

“…The preparation of epoxy-functional spheres, worms or vesicles via RAFT aqueous emulsion polymerization of GlyMA has been reported by both Armes and co-workers and Tan et al . 71,73,75,77,78,86,98 For such PISA formulations, premature loss of the epoxy groups via ring-opening attack by water can be minimized by choosing appropriate mild reaction conditions ( e.g. neutral pH, moderate reaction temperatures of 20–50 °C) and ensuring short reaction times.…”

Nano-dimensional spheres and worms as fillers in polymer nanocomposites: effect of filler morphology

“…vesicles. 26 To compensate the increase in packing parameter due to the presence of EGDMA, the target DP of MMA was reduced from 300 to 290, 280, 270 and 250 while the EGDMA/RAFT ratio was maintained at 3. Worms mixed with a smaller population of vesicles were observed at 290, and near pure worms were obtained at 280 (Fig.…”