Emulsifier-free synthesis of crosslinkable ABA triblock copolymer nanoparticles via AGET ATRP

A crosslinkable ABA triblock copolymer was synthesized from allylic methacrylate (AMA) monomer using a poly(ethylene oxide)-based macromolecule as both an initiator and emulsifier. The two-step controlled/living radical polymerization can be conducted via activator generated by electron transfer (AGET) atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Cheap and commercially available N,N-dimethyldodecylamine (DMDA) was found to be a good ligand for the AGET ATRP reaction. The linear ABA triblock copolymer that contains pendent allylic groups can undergo crosslinking under UV irradiation conditions, which indicates that the environmentally friendly method has potential applications in UV curing coatings and UV curing inks, etc..