A Roadmap towards Successful Nanocapsule Synthesis via Vesicle Templated RAFT-Based Emulsion Polymerization

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Vesicle templated emulsion polymerization offers a route to nanocapsules, a structure in high demand due to the obsolescence of older synthesis methods.
• Previous studies lacked a comprehensive understanding of parameters controlling morphology, often resulting in mixtures of particles, pro-trusions, and nanocapsules.
• High yields of nanocapsules have not been previously achieved.

Purpose of the Study:

• To thoroughly investigate the parameters influencing morphology in vesicle templated emulsion polymerization.
• To identify the key factors necessary for achieving high yields of nanocapsules.
• To establish a comprehensive understanding of vesicle templated nanocapsule synthesis.

Main Methods:

• Investigated the influence of initial vesicle dispersion.
• Examined the role of the Reversible Addition-Fragmentation chain Transfer (RAFT) species and oligomer.
• Assessed the impact of monomer and crosslinker concentrations on polymerization outcomes.

Main Results:

• High yield nanocapsule synthesis is achieved through good initial vesicle dispersion.
• Molecular control of the RAFT process, use of a moderately hydrophobic monomer, and inclusion of crosslinking are critical.
• Suboptimal RAFT control and verification in prior work led to mixed morphologies, unlike the current optimized results.

Conclusions:

• A complete understanding of vesicle templated nanocapsule synthesis has been established.
• The identified parameters are crucial for maximizing nanocapsule yield and purity.
• This optimized method is relevant for diverse applications requiring nanocapsules.