The invention pertains to a process for preparing interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) of two polymers with controlled nano-scale bicontinuous morphology. The IPN networks are prepared sequentially using sugar-based non-aqueous microemulsions as templates. Each polymer is synthesized through polymerization reactions of their respective monomer and initiator/cross-linker mixtures. The first monomer mixture must be hydrophobic and insoluble in sugar, and the resulting first polymer must be insoluble and exhibit zero or negligible swelling in the second monomer mixture. This method, referred to as the “sequential microemulsion polymerization technique,” offers several advantages over traditional sequential or simultaneous IPN preparation methods. These advantages include precise control over bicontinuous domain sizes and structure, the ability to synthesize IPNs with a range of volume fractions of constituent polymers, and the capability to handle incompatible polymer combinations, including those that do not exhibit swelling behavior towards either corresponding monomer.
Figure (1) SEM images which illustrate porous structure of the first polymer phase formed after a first step of polymerization.
Interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPNs) are a type of polymer blend consisting of two or more polymers with interlocked chains that are not covalently bonded. IPNs are generally synthesized using either the simultaneous polymerization technique or the sequential polymerization technique. Both methods have several limitations, including challenges in controlling domain morphology, difficulties in synthesizing IPNs with varying volume fractions due to swelling ratio constraints, and issues with incompatible polymer pairs.
- Prepared sequentially using sugar-based non-aqueous microemulsions as templates
- Precise control over bicontinuous domain sizes and structure
- Ability to synthesize IPNs with a wide range of volume fractions of constituent polymers
- Capability to handle incompatible polymer combinations, including those that do not exhibit swelling behavior
- Utilization of surfactants to stabilize the interface between the sugar and oil phases of the microemulsion
The method involves creating a microemulsion structure using a combination of sugar(s), oil, and a surfactant. This structure is then immersed in a mixture of a first monomer and a first initiator and/or cross-linker at a predefined temperature, replacing the oil phase with the first monomer mixture to form a first monomer phase. Polymerization of the first monomer phase, followed by dissolving the sugar phase in water, yields a porous first polymer phase. Subsequently, a second monomer mixture consisting of a second monomer, a second initiator and/or a cross-linker is prepared. The bi-continuous interpenetrating polymer network is then obtained by polymerizing the second monomer phase within the pores of the first polymer phase.
The invention is at the stage of demonstration/ validation in the Lab environment.
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- Healthcare: Enhances drug delivery and tissue engineering, improving treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes.
- Environment: Promotes greener manufacturing using sugar-based templates and supports clean water access through better filtration membranes.
- Industry: Enables robust materials for use in coatings, nanocomposites, and personal care, fostering innovation across sectors.
IPNs can be used in many ways such as drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, nanocomposites, coatings, water treatment, personal care products and household items.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201921030696
390921