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Dual Stimuli-Responsive Comb Polymers from Modular N-Acylated Poly(aminoester)-Based Macromonomers
Patrick A J M de Jongh1, Alice Mortiboy1, Greg S Sulley1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL, Coventry, United Kingdom.
ACS Macro Letters
|May 26, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed dual-responsive N-acylated poly(aminoester) (NPAE) comb polymers. These polymers respond to both temperature and pH changes, offering tunable properties for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Developing stimuli-responsive polymers is crucial for advanced materials.
- N-acylated poly(aminoester) (NPAE) comb polymers offer tunable properties.
- Controlling molecular composition and sequence impacts polymer behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize dual-responsive NPAE-based comb polymers.
- To investigate the influence of molecular composition and monomer sequence on polymer properties.
- To explore the temperature and pH responsiveness of these novel polymers.
Main Methods:
- Combination of spontaneous zwitterionic copolymerization and reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RRAFT) polymerization.
- Synthesis of NPAE macromonomers using nucleophilic (e.g., EtOx, EtOz) and electrophilic (e.g., AA, CEA) monomers.
- Turbidity investigations in aqueous solutions to assess dual-responsiveness.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized dual-responsive NPAE comb polymers with controlled molecular composition and monomer sequence.
- Demonstrated that monomer sequence influences thermal properties and stability.
- Observed dual-responsiveness to temperature and pH changes due to ω-carboxylic end groups.
- Increased hydrophobicity (via additional methylene groups) lowered cloud point temperatures and altered phase separation pH.
Conclusions:
- NPAE comb polymers exhibit tunable dual-responsiveness to temperature and pH.
- Molecular composition and monomer sequence are key factors in controlling polymer properties and responsiveness.
- These findings open avenues for designing smart materials with tailored aqueous solution behavior.
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