Phase Transfer Agent for Block Copolymer Aqueous Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring amphiphilic block copolymers from organic to aqueous phases are inefficient, particularly due to slow processes like dialysis and the use of high-volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which limit scalability and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A phase transfer process using a phase transfer agent dissolved in the aqueous solution to facilitate the transfer of amphiphilic block copolymers from water-immiscible organic solvents to an aqueous phase, enabling the formation of micellar solutions for low-VOC coatings and controlled nanoparticle synthesis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dialysis is used to transfer block copolymers from organic to aqueous phase, then transfer is achieved, but the process is slow and limited to low volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a phase transfer agent as an intermediary substance to facilitate the transfer of block copolymers from organic phase to aqueous phase. The phase transfer agent forms transient complexes with the block copolymers, enabling their solubilization and transfer to the aqueous phase without requiring slow dialysis processes.
2Productivity
If solvent evaporation is used to transfer block copolymers to aqueous solution, then transfer is achieved, but low-volatile organic compound problems are created and expensive recovery processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of the transfer process by using a phase transfer agent that enables direct dissolution and transfer of block copolymers into aqueous solution without requiring solvent evaporation. This parameter change eliminates VOC emissions and eliminates the need for expensive solvent recovery processes.
3Productivity
If conventional phase transfer agents are used for transferring block copolymers, then transfer is achieved, but high concentrations of the phase transfer agent are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the parameters of the phase transfer process by using a specifically designed phase transfer agent that achieves effective block copolymer transfer at low concentrations. The agent's molecular structure and properties are optimized to maximize transfer efficiency while minimizing the quantity required.
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
This method allows for efficient and scalable transfer of block copolymers, reducing VOC emissions and enabling the production of stable, nanostructured coatings that inhibit biofouling and facilitate controlled release of active compounds.
Implementation Method 1
a phase transfer process in the presence of a phase transfer agent to assist transfer of the block copolymer from a water immiscible organic phase to aqueous phase
Implementation Method 2
transferred the amphiphilic block copolymer to an aqueous solution in the presence of a phase transfer agent to obtain a micellar solution
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method to transfer block copolymers from water immiscible organic phase to aqueous phase using a phase transfer agent. At higher concentrations, micellar networks of the block copolymers were obtained in the aqueous solution that can be coated onto a variety of substrates. Block copolymer films showed very good antifouling properties. The phase transferred block copolymers can be used to synthesize encapsulated nanoparticle aggregates for biodiagnostic imaging applications. The phase transferred block copolymer micelles can be used to encapsulate active compounds. The invention has applications in drug delivery, crop protection, and medical device coating.