We report simple, versatile syntheses of carboxypolystyrene (carboxyPS) particles ranging from 100 nm to 500 �m in diameter. Previous syntheses to produce carboxyPS beads larger than 35 �m have required several steps or harsh conditions. Additionally, sub-micron cross-linked carboxyPS particles have remained elusive. To address these difficulties, our group used a one-step synthesis of tert-butyl 4-vinylbenzoate, a monomer which can be co-polymerized with styrene and divinylbenzene. Optimization of suspension, dispersion, and emulsion polymerizations yielded particles of various sizes ranging from 100 nm to 500 �m. Subsequent deprotection of the tert-butyl ester gave carboxyPS particles. These particles have been further functionalized and characterized by a variety of methods. Our approach offers a straightforward synthesis of cross-linked carboxyPS particles from the nano- to the microscale. Applications for cross-linked carboxyPS resins include solid-phase synthesis and chromatographic purification while nanoparticles show potential as biomedical imaging agents, gel modulators, and catalytic scaffolds.

Synthesis of cross-linked carboxypolystyrene particles with diameter spanning four orders of magnitude

246th National Meeting (2013)

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