Thermoresponsive Copolymer Microgels Synthesized via Single-Step Precipitation Polymerization: Random or Block Structure?

ABSTRACT: The inner structure of polymeric microgels critically influences their responsiveness and potential applications, yet remaining challenging to resolve at molecular resolution. In this work, a structural characterization of thermoresponsive copolymer microgels is provided by integrating small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements with multi-scale simulations. Specifically, Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-N-isopropylmethacrylamide), P(NIPAM-co-NIPMAM), copolymer microgels, in which a random monomer distribution is conventionally assumed, are considered. By synthesizing different samples, including isotopically labeled microgels via selective deuteration, the microgels swelling behavior is probed and distinct polymer-s

SUBMITTER: Tavagnacco L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12658933 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature