Polymerizations in Aqueous Dispersed Media

Abstract

Heterogeneous polymerizations in aqueous media remain an active area of research with an emphasis on control over polymer architecture and molecular weight. Previously established methods to perform reversible deactivation radical polymerizations have been expanded and will be covered in this article. Recent strategies employ novel catalysts, functional surfactants, and multistep processes to yield stable, and in some cases, high solids content, latexes through a variety of nonconventional chemistries. Moreover, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly has been developed to yield high‐order morphologies in aqueous dispersions in mild conditions. Photoinduced polymerization techniques have seen increasing interest owing to the “green” benefits of using light as a stimulus for polymerization. The goals in this field remain to provide control over polymerizations in aqueous dispersed media while reducing both monetary and environmental costs. This article will cover recent developments in producing water‐based polymer dispersions with control over nanoparticle morphology and functionality and macromolecular structure.

Carbon Quantum Dot-Catalyzed, Highly Efficient Miniemulsion Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization Induced by Visible Light

“…According to the principles of green polymerization, the ideal polymerization reaction is one that quantitatively converts monomers into well-defined polymers, with maximize economy and reduce waste. , In this regard, photomediated reversible-deactivation radical polymerizations (photoRDRP), using in particular visible light as a “green” energy source, have attracted broad research interest. , In addition, photoRDRP can be carried out in aqueous media, which is particularly relevant from an environmental perspective, offering better temperature control due to easy heat removal, and leading to high solids, low viscosity polymers. , Polymerizations in aqueous dispersed media encompass a variety of processes, including miniemulsion, emulsion, suspension, and dispersion polymerization, all of which are used extensively in many applications. ,− …”