Swelling-based method for preparing stable, functionalized polymer colloids.
We describe a swelling-based method to prepare sterically stabilized polymer colloids with different functional groups or biomolecules attached to their surface. It should be applicable to a variety of polymeric colloids, including magnetic particles, fluorescent particles, polystyrene particles, PMMA particles, and so forth. The resulting particles are more stable in the presence of monovalent and divalent salt than existing functionalized colloids, even in the absence of any surfactant or protein blocker. While we use a PEG polymer brush here, the method should enable the use of a variety of polymer chemistries and molecular weights.
Kim
Anthony J
AJ
Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Manoharan
Vinothan N
VN
Crocker
John C
JC
D003102:Colloids / Q000737:chemistry*; D004277:DNA, Single-Stranded / Q000737:chemistry; D004355:Drug Stability; D005452:Fluoresceins / Q000737:chemistry; D057927:Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions; D008863:Microspheres; D009994:Osmolar Concentration; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000737:chemistry*; D011137:Polystyrenes / Q000737:chemistry*; D013501:Surface-Active Agents / Q000737:chemistry*; D014050:Toluene / Q000737:chemistry
D003102:Colloids; D004277:DNA, Single-Stranded; D005452:Fluoresceins; D011137:Polystyrenes; D013501:Surface-Active Agents; D014050:Toluene; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols