Miniemulsion Polymerization

Abstract

The miniemulsion technique allows the formation of functionalized polymers via different types of polymerization, the encapsulation of liquid and solid components, and/or the modification of polymers in stable nanodroplets. In this chapter, we present the details of various polymer syntheses within miniemulsion droplets, the possibilities of encapsulating various components (as reported elsewhere) are discussed, and we outline the current trends in this field of research.

Dendronized Polymers: Molecular Objects between Conventional Linear Polymers and Colloidal Particles

“…Furthermore, the diameters of high g DPs should be fine-tuned in steps of roughly ≈ 1 nm from g to g + 1 (Figure a). In contrast, colloidal particles produced with emulsion and miniemulsion techniques are never fully monodispersed. In distinction to the beads mentioned earlier, the dissolution of DP MOs will not cause structural disintegration.…”

Polynorbornene latex synthesis by UV-triggered Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization in miniemulsion

“…This is usually achieved by heating a hydrophobic thermal radical initiator dissolved in the emulsified organic phase. [1][2][3][4] In order to expand the range of latexes available, the use of other polymerization processes including Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) is highly desirable. Aqueous dispersions based on polyunsaturated ROMP polymers like polynorbornene (PNb) hold potential to create a new class of dispersed materials having high mechanical strength or polymer microstructures which cannot be prepared by conventional free-radical polymerization.…”

Photolatent ring-opening metathesis polymerization in miniemulsion: a powerful approach to produce polynorbornene latexes

“…1 Although there is no commercial application known today, miniemulsion free radical polymerization is a powerful way to obtain polymer latexes thanks to the tolerance of free radicals towards water. 2,3,4,5 In addition, miniemulsion polymerization relies on droplet nucleation allowing the polymerization of very hydrophobic monomers as well as the preparation of organic/inorganic nanocomposites, which are difficult to achieve with conventional ab initio emulsion polymerization. In a typical miniemulsion route, a mixture containing the monomer(s), a water-insoluble initiator, and a costabilizer (to avoid Ostwald ripening) forms an organic phase.…”