Synthesis of Crosslinked Microparticles Based on Glycidyl Methacrylate and N-Vinylimidazole

In this study, suspension polymerization technique is used to obtain 3D porous networks based on two monofunctional monomers (glycidyl methacrylate and N-vinylimidazole) and one of the following difunctional monomers known as crosslinking agents: mono-, di-, and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate or divinylbenzene. The influence of various operational parameters like: monomer molar ratio, amount and type of crosslinkers, composition of stabilization system, stirring speed, amount of porogenic agent on the reaction yield, surface morphologies, particle size distribution, and porous characteristics are investigated in order to find the optimal conditions for the synthesis of microparticles possessing the desired properties for further chemical modification. Crosslinked porous microparticles are structurally characterized by Fourier transform inrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and elemental analysis by determination of nitrogen and epoxy groups. The microparticle morphologies as a function of investigated parameters are revealed by scanning electron microscopy, whereas the porous structure is highlighted by mercury porosimetry and dynamic water vapor sorption methods. All the crosslinked networks exhibit porous structures with different surface morphologies and specific surface area values (1.15-48.32 m(2) g(-1)) depending on the operational parameters. These microparticles can be considered precursors for the preparation of various functional polymeric materials.