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Unlike ionic or small covalent molecules, polymers do not form crystalline solids due to the diffusion limitations of their long-chain structures. However, polymers contain microscopic crystalline domains separated by amorphous domains.
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The cationic polymerization mechanism consists of three steps: initiation, propagation, and termination. In the initiation step of the polymerization process, the π bond of a monomer gets protonated by the Lewis acid catalyst, which is formed from boron trifluoride and water. The protonation of the π bond generates a carbocation stabilized by the electron‐donating group. In the propagation step, the π bond of the second monomer acts as a nucleophile and attacks the...
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Liquid-Crystalline Polymer Particles Prepared by Classical Polymerization Techniques.

Xiaohong Liu1,2, Michael G Debije1, Johan P A Heuts1,2

  • 1Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.

Chemistry (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|July 28, 2021
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Liquid-crystalline polymer particles offer unique properties for advanced applications. This review details their preparation via classical polymerization methods, comparing techniques and outcomes.

Keywords:
dispersion polymerizationliquid crystal polymer particlesmini-emulsion polymerizationprecipitation polymerizationsuspension polymerization

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Area of Science:

  • Polymer Science
  • Materials Science
  • Nanotechnology

Background:

  • Liquid-crystalline polymer particles are advanced materials with anisotropic molecular order.
  • They exhibit unique liquid-crystalline phases, differentiating them from conventional polymer particles.
  • These particles show potential in applications like micro-actuators and structurally colored objects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the preparation of liquid-crystalline polymer particles using classical polymerization techniques.
  • To compare different polymerization methods for their suitability in creating these specialized particles.
  • To summarize and analyze the resulting particle characteristics, including size, orientation, and phases.

Main Methods:

  • Suspension polymerization
  • (Mini-)emulsion polymerization
  • Dispersion polymerization
  • Precipitation polymerization

Main Results:

  • Each polymerization technique yields liquid-crystalline polymer particles with varying characteristics.
  • Particle size, molecular orientation, and liquid-crystalline phase depend on the chosen preparation method.
  • Classical polymerization offers versatile routes to tailor particle properties.

Conclusions:

  • Classical polymerization techniques provide viable pathways for producing liquid-crystalline polymer particles.
  • Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize these preparation methods.
  • Liquid-crystalline polymer particles hold significant promise for diverse technological applications.