Synthesis of block copolymer poly (n-butyl acrylate)-b-polystyrene by DPE seeded emulsion polymerization with monodisperse latex particles and morphology of self-assembly film surface

Synthesis of poly (n-butyl acrylate)-b-polystyrene (PnBA-b-PSt) with high molecular weight in an environmentally benign medium was carried out in seeded emulsion polymerization, using a novel chain transfer active DPE (1,1-diphenylethylene) agent. Seed latex containing precursor P(nBA-DPE) was prepared first, and the second monomer styrene was swelled into seed latex particles, yielding block copolymer at high conversion. Structures as well as molecular weight of precursor and block copolymer were characterized by FTIR, ¹H NMR, and SEC, respectively. Furthermore, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) observation and Laser Light Scattering (LLS) manifested that monodisperse latex particles were obtained. Self-assembly morphology of block copolymer membrane surface was examined by atom force microscopy (AFM). Phase separation was observed clearly, which was confirmed by the observation of two glass transitions in DSC curve.