Thermosensitive ZrP-PNIPAM Pickering Emulsifier and the Controlled-Release Behavior

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Colloid and Surface Chemistry
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Zirconium phosphate (ZrP) is a two-dimensional layered material.
• Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) is a thermosensitive polymer.
• Controlling interfacial tension is crucial for emulsion stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize asymmetric Janus and Gemini ZrP-PNIPAM monolayer nanoplates.
• To investigate their ability to reduce interfacial tension and form stable oil/water emulsions.
• To evaluate their potential as thermosensitive Pickering emulsifiers for controlled-release applications.

Main Methods:

• Exfoliation of two-dimensional layered ZrP disks.
• Covalent modification of ZrP surface with PNIPAM.
• Characterization of nanoplates and their interfacial properties.
• Evaluation of emulsion formation and stability.

Main Results:

• Successfully obtained asymmetric Janus and Gemini ZrP-PNIPAM nanoplates.
• Nanoplates significantly reduced oil/water interfacial tension.
• Stable oil/water emulsions were produced.
• PNIPAM grafting provided rapid temperature responsivity.

Conclusions:

• ZrP-PNIPAM nanoplates act as effective Pickering emulsifiers.
• The developed nanoplates exhibit thermosensitive behavior.
• They are promising for controlled-release applications.