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Cytoskeleton mimetic reinforcement of a self-assembled N,N'-dialkylimidazolium ionic liquid monomer by copolymerization.

Journal Article · · Macromolecules
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/ma900905k· OSTI ID:962888

Preparation and photopolymerization of a decylmethylimidazolium ionic liquid (IL) that possesses an acrylate counteranion are described. This IL monomer self-assembles upon addition of water and can be copolymerized with poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) in the presence of a photoinitiator, forming a mechanically durable material that adopts a lamellar structure with in-plane hexagonally ordered pores, as evidenced by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Thermogravimetric analysis, the extent of polymerization, and solubility-swelling studies indicate the formation of a network copolymer of the IL monomer and the PEGDA. Additional evidence for the formation of a nanostructured copolymer is provided by evaluating the product formed by replacement of the IL monomer with the nonpolymerizable analogue, decylmethylimidazolium chloride. The results demonstrate the possibility of designing a self-assembled amiphiphilic bilayer architecture that is reinforced by polymerization and cross-linking.

Research Organization:
Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)
Sponsoring Organization:
SC
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-06CH11357
OSTI ID:
962888
Report Number(s):
ANL/MSD/JA-64239
Journal Information:
Macromolecules, Journal Name: Macromolecules Journal Issue: 15 ; Aug. 11, 2009 Vol. 42
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
ENGLISH