ICAR ATRP in PEG with Low Concentration of Cu(II) Catalyst: A Versatile Method for Synthesis of Block Copolymer Nanoassemblies under Dispersion Polymerization

Wang, YX (Wang, Yixin)^[ 1,2 ] ; Han, G (Han, Guang)^[ 3 ] ; Duan, WF (Duan, Wenfeng)^[ 3 ] ; Zhang, WQ (Zhang, Wangqing)^[ 1,2 ]

MACROMOLECULAR RAPID COMMUNICATIONS, 2019, 40(2): 特刊: SI 文献号: 1800140

DOI: 10.1002/marc.201800140

Abstract

A versatile method for synthesis of block copolymer nanoassemblies via initiators for continuous activator regeneration (ICAR) atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) dispersion polymerization in a low molecular weight poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is discussed. This ICAR ATRP dispersion polymerization uses a low concentration of CuBr2 catalyst, which is stable under atmospheric conditions and is soluble in most polar solvents and employs a polymerization medium of viscous and nonvolatile PEG. Through this ICAR ATRP dispersion polymerization, various block copolymer nanoassemblies, including poly(ethylene glycol)-block-polystyrene, poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(methyl methacrylate), and poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate)-block-poly(methyl methacrylate), have been synthesized. The parameters affecting the size and morphology of the block copolymer nanoassemblies are briefly discussed.