Crosslinked Isoporous Block Copolymer Chemical Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isoporous block copolymers lack sufficient chemical resistance and mechanical integrity to withstand harsh solvent conditions, particularly from organic, acidic, or basic materials, limiting their application in separation environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of hierarchically porous, crosslinked block copolymer structures where at least one block is chemically modified to provide chemical resistance, and other blocks offer mechanical integrity, achieved by crosslinking after isoporosity formation, allowing for high permeability and selectivity in non-aqueous media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If crosslinking is performed prior to pore formation in block copolymers, then chemical resistance is improved, but pore formation and isoporosity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs pore formation as a preliminary action before crosslinking. The block copolymer is first self-assembled to form the desired isoporous structure, and then crosslinking is applied to lock in the structure and provide chemical resistance. This sequence resolves the contradiction by establishing porosity before the crosslinking network forms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the process into distinct stages: (1) self-assembly to form isoporous structure, (2) crosslinking to provide chemical resistance, and (3) optional post-treatment. This segmentation allows each property to be optimized independently without compromising the other.
2Reliability
If crosslinking is performed to enhance chemical resistance, then solvent resistance is improved, but mechanical integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes crosslinking parameters including crosslinker concentration, crosslinking temperature, and crosslinking time to achieve the minimum effective crosslinking density. This provides sufficient solvent resistance while minimizing impact on mechanical properties. The crosslinking degree is carefully controlled to balance these competing requirements.
3Productivity
If isoporosity is maintained in harsh chemical environments, then separation efficiency is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite structure where the crosslinked polymer network provides structural stability while the isoporous morphology maintains separation functionality. The crosslinked blocks act as a stable scaffold that resists harsh chemicals, while the porous structure allows efficient separation processes to occur.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The crosslinked isoporous structures exhibit enhanced resistance to harsh solvents and elevated temperatures, maintaining porosity and separation efficiency in harsh chemical mixtures, including organic, acidic, or basic liquids, while maintaining mechanical stability.
Implementation Method 1
Multiblock copolymers used to achieve self-assembled isoporous structures
Implementation Method 2
Cross-linking of polymers, block or otherwise, prior to pore formation are known
Data Source
AI summary
Isoporous block copolymers of cross-linked structures, and methods of preparing, which are resistant to harsh solvent conditions from organic, acidic or basic materials are disclosed.