In order to generate an efficient detection assay, an analyte’s signal must be amplified to provide a detectable readout in a short time period. Polymerization reactions can be used to amplify a signal by inciting formation of a long polymer off of a single initiator molecule. In order to detect the appearance of polymers, and thus the presence or absence of an analyte, our lab polymerizes fluorogenic monomers that are dark in their monomer form, but glow under UV light when integrated into a polymer in real time. An effective detection assay must not only produce a detectable signal quickly, but also achieve as much fluorescence as possible in order to detect low analyte concentrations. We have previously developed a fluorogenic atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) reaction which can successfully be used for analyte detection. In order to optimize the reaction for analyte detection, a holistic understanding of the ATRP reaction components and how they affect the mechanistic and kinetic aspects of polymerization is needed.<br/>We will present a thorough optimization study involving the analysis of several fluorogenic ATRP reaction variables. Using fluorescence and kinetic data, various surfactants were screened and characterized to find the optimal choice for solubilization and kinetic efficiency. Components of the reaction that had a direct connection to the catalyst’s functionality were tested, including halide salt, reducing agent, and catalyst loading. An alternative solvent was probed to determine the effect on polymerization kinetics. Each component was methodically studied and improved, and the optimized components were successfully combined to achieve significantly brighter fluorescence within short reaction times.

Optimizing fluorogenic atom transfer radical polymerization as a strategy for detection

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

[Author Benefits](https://scimeetings.acs.org/?utm_source=pubs_content_marketing&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=0320_MCF_NPI_Launch_Spring_Homepage&ref=pubs_content_marketing)

[How to use SciMeetings](https://storage.googleapis.com/dl.morressier.com/acs/SciMeetings-ACSSpring2020-HowToGuide_M3020-Final.pdf)

[Frequently Asked Questions](https://storage.googleapis.com/dl.morressier.com/acs/SciMtng_ACSNMSp2020_FAQ_M3120_Final.pdf)

ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.