Multistimuli-responsive hyperbranched
polymers were synthesized
in one-step polymerization using reversible addition–fragmentation
chain transfer self-condensing vinyl polymerization (RAFT-SCVP). These
hyperbranched polymers responded to UV–vis or sunlight, pH
changes, and temperature changes. 2-(dodecylthiocarbonothioylthio)-2-methylpropionic
acid known as DDMAT participated in esterification with 2-hydroxyethyl
methacrylate to obtain a chain transfer monomer in the name of 2-((2-(((dodecylthio)carbonothioyl)thio)-2-methylpropanoyl)oxy)ethylmethacrylate
(MACDT). For the first time, smart hyperbranched polymers were produced
with the RAFT-SCVP method in one step by using 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl
methacrylate (DMAEMA), spirooxazine acryloyl monomer, and MACDT with
different feed ratios ([DMAEMA]/[MACDT]). Moreover, smart hyperbranched
polymers prepared by the RAFT-SCVP method reveal the manner of controlling
molecular weights and the degree of branching (DB). Additionally,
this study shows that when the DB of polymers was increased or feed
ratios were decreased, photochromic properties and the lower critical
solution temperature point of hyperbranched polymers were reduced.
Furthermore, these smart hyperbranched polymers have the potential
to be utilized as sensors.
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