Hierarchical Macroporous PolyDCPD Composites from Surface-Modified Calcite-Stabilized High Internal Phase Emulsions

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Colloid Science

Background:

• High internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) are crucial templates for creating macroporous materials.
• Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) is a versatile monomer for polymerization.
• Controlling HIPE formulation is key to tailoring porous material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize macroporous polyDCPD composites using HIPEs of DCPD.
• To investigate the influence of formulation parameters on HIPE and composite properties.
• To develop predictive models for the morphological and physical characteristics of the resulting composites.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of HIPEs using surface-modified calcite (mCalcite) and non-ionic surfactants.
• Synthesis of macroporous polyDCPD via ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of HIPEs.
• Application of experimental design methodology to systematically vary formulation parameters.

Main Results:

• Twelve HIPE formulations were created by varying internal phase ratio, mCalcite loading, and surfactant concentration.
• Five model equations (95% confidence) were derived to predict composite properties.
• Synergistic effects of formulation parameters on average cavity diameter, pore size, surface area, density, and modulus were identified.

Conclusions:

• The internal phase ratio, mCalcite loading, and surfactant amount significantly dictate HIPE and resultant polyDCPD composite characteristics.
• Predictive models enable tailored synthesis of macroporous materials with desired properties.
• This research provides a framework for designing advanced porous polymer composites.