ATR-FTIR studies of a thermo-responsive ABA triblock copolymer gelator in aquaeous solution

SAMMON, C., LI, C., ARMES, S. P. and LEWIS, A. L. (2006). ATR-FTIR studies of a thermo-responsive ABA triblock copolymer gelator in aquaeous solution. Polymer, 47.

Full text not available from this repository.
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymer.2006.06.013

Abstract

A variable temperature ATR–FTIR study of the gelation behaviour of a thermo-responsive ABA triblock copolymer (A = poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and B = poly[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine]) is reported. Close inspection of selected copolymer and water bands in the temperature resolved spectra provides evidence for the dehydration of the poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) chains above a critical gelation temperature of approximately 37 °C, while the central poly[2-(methacryoyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine]) chains remain hydrated. A blue shift in the amide I peak and a red shift in the amide II band indicate a reduction in the hydrogen bonding between the PNIPAM amide functional group and the solvent water. This is corroborated by a decrease in the intensity of the amide I peak above the gel point. Evidence of hydrophobic interactions and an indication of the source of the gelation mechanism were observed in the form of a red shift in the antisymmetric CH vibration with increasing temperature. These findings are consistent with the formation of a micellar gel network by the copolymer chains.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: Copyright © Elsevier Ltd
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Materials and Engineering Research Institute > Advanced Coatings and Composites Research Centre > Polymers, Composites and Spectroscopy Group
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymer.2006.06.013
Depositing User: Ann Betterton
Date Deposited: 30 Jul 2008
Last Modified: 18 Mar 2021 21:30
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/935

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year

View more statistics