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Updated: Mar 15, 2026
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Anionic Polymerization of an Amphiphilic Copolymer for Preparation of Block Copolymer Micelles Stabilized by π-π Stacking Interactions
Published on: October 10, 2016
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Bi-Continuous Emulsions Stabilized by pH-Responsive Self-Assembled Aggregates of Amphiphilic Random Copolymer with
Hao Du1, Yun Zhang2, Yuyun Yang1
1School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
Polymers
|March 14, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a simple method to create gel-like bi-continuous emulsions using pH-responsive polymers. The technique offers controllable emulsion types (O/W, bi-continuous, W/O) via pH adjustment.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Colloid and Surface Chemistry
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Bi-continuous emulsions exhibit unique properties useful in various applications.
- Developing simple and efficient methods for their preparation remains a challenge.
- pH-responsive polymers offer tunable interfacial properties for emulsion stabilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simplified one-step emulsification strategy for bi-continuous emulsions.
- To utilize pH-responsive self-assembled polymer aggregates as interfacial stabilizers.
- To investigate the pH-dependent control over emulsion type.
Main Methods:
- One-step emulsification using poly(styrene-co-methacrylic acid) (P(St-co-MAA)) in an oil/water system.
- Characterization using fluorescence microscopy, SEM, and CLSM.
- Three-phase contact angle measurements and rheological analysis.
Main Results:
- Formation of stable bi-continuous emulsions with gel-like properties.
- pH-dependent wettability of P(St-co-MAA) aggregates confirmed by contact angle measurements (~90° at pH 7.0-8.0).
- Rheological analysis indicated a 3D elastic gel network structure.
Conclusions:
- A facile, rapid, and robust method for preparing bi-continuous emulsions was established.
- The pH-responsive nature of the polymer stabilizers allows for tunable emulsion type.
- This approach avoids complex particle modifications and procedures.
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