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Temperature-Responsive Lactic Acid-Based Nanoparticles by RAFT-Mediated Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly in
Sarah E Woods1, James David Tinkler1, Nabil Bensabeh2
1Department of Materials, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom.
ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering
|July 14, 2023
Summary
This study introduces biobased, temperature-responsive diblock copolymer nanoparticles using green monomers and reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization. These novel nanoparticles exhibit tunable properties and potential for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Development of sustainable and functional nanomaterials is crucial.
- Biobased monomers offer environmentally friendly alternatives in polymer synthesis.
- Temperature-responsive polymers have applications in drug delivery and smart materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize novel biobased, temperature-responsive diblock copolymer nanoparticles.
- To utilize green monomers derived from lactic acid.
- To investigate the self-assembly behavior and properties of these nanoparticles.
Main Methods:
- Reversible Addition-Fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) aqueous emulsion polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA).
- Synthesis of hydrophilic PDMLA macro-CTA via RAFT aqueous solution polymerization.
- Chain extension with ELA to form amphiphilic PDMLA-b-PELA diblock copolymers.
- Characterization using DSC, DLS, and AFM.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized biobased PDMLA-b-PELA diblock copolymer nanoparticles.
- Achieved narrow molecular weight dispersities for both homopolymers and diblock copolymers.
- Identified two distinct glass transition temperatures (Tg) for the copolymers.
- Observed tunable particle sizes (11-74 nm) and spherical morphology.
- Demonstrated reversible lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully demonstrated the synthesis of biobased, temperature-responsive diblock copolymer nanoparticles via RAFT PISA.
- The use of green monomers (DMLA and ELA) provides a sustainable route to functional nanomaterials.
- The synthesized nanoparticles exhibit tunable size, distinct thermal properties, and LCST behavior, indicating potential for advanced applications.
