Inside-Out, Dual Light-, and pH-Triggered Release from Oil-Core Microcapsules Via CATCH Cleavage Mechanism.

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Degradation of solid-state microcapsules presents significant challenges.
• Existing methods often lack control over the degradation process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for controlled, inside-out degradation of poly(hydroxy urethane) microcapsules.
• To utilize the CATCH cleavage concept for triggered microcapsule breakdown.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of acid-degradable microcapsules via interfacial polymerization using trimesoyl chloride and a specific diamine.
• Encapsulation of a photoacid generator within the microcapsules.
• Induction of degradation using UV light (365 nm) photolysis to trigger internal acid generation.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated successful inside-out degradation of poly(hydroxy urethane) microcapsules.
• Showcased controlled degradation initiated by internally generated acid upon UV exposure.
• Verified degradation under anhydrous conditions.

Conclusions:

• The CATCH cleavage concept enables controlled, internal degradation of microcapsules.
• Photoacid generators serve as effective triggers for UV-initiated microcapsule breakdown.
• This inside-out degradation strategy opens new avenues for microcapsule-based technologies and applications.