We report the first synthesis of hyperbranched poly[(<i>N</i>-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide)] (HB-PHPMA) using reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) self-condensing vinyl polymerization (SCVP). The synthesis of these sophisticated, well-defined architectures involved the copolymerization of HPMA with a chain transfer monomer (CTM). The polymerization kinetics, as well as the effects of initiator and monomer concentration, were studied. The resulting polymers show high molecular weights and controlled branching frequencies in close alignment with the theoretical values. Due to their inherent amphiphilic nature, these hyperbranched structures self-assemble into aggregates in water. Additionally, we determined the cloud point of the HB-PHPMA to be in the range of 29-40 °C. These interesting results provide access to a new class of thermoresponsive PHPMA polymers with potential to be used in drug delivery and other biological applications.

Hyperbranched poly[(<i>n</i>-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide)] via RAFT self-condensing vinyl polymerization

251st National Meeting (2016)

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Hyperbranched poly[(n-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide)] via RAFT self-condensing vinyl polymerization