It has been demonstrated
that nano- or micro-structured polymeric
materials have huge potential as advanced materials. However, most
of the current fabricating methods have limitations either in cost
or in size. Here, we investigate the bulk polymerization of methyl
methacrylate in the presence of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). We found
that phase separation occurs during bulk polymerization. After removal
of PEG via sonication, microscopic structures of poly(methyl methacrylate),
including porous structures, co-continuous monolith structures, or
particle aggregation structures, are formed. These structures can
be controlled by the amount of PEG added and the reaction temperature.
The results are summarized in phase diagrams. The addition of PEG
significantly affects the reaction kinetics. Phase separation is coupled
with the reaction acceleration known as the Trommsdorff effect. As
a result, the reaction completes in a shorter time when the PEG amount
is higher. We demonstrate surface coating to fabricate an amphiphobic
surface, repelling both water and oil. The methods presented here
have the potential to fabricate microscopic structures in large areas
cost-effectively.
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