Polymer nanoparticles as nanoformulation agents

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An approach to produce polymer nanoparticles with tailored characteristics to accommodate different nanoformulation applications is presented. Polymer nanoparticles are made from the collapse of polyelectrolytes in the presence of counterions and/or different solvents. The size, hydrophobic/hydrophilic character, as well as surface interaction characteristics of collapsed polyelectrolyte nanoparticles can be controlled by varying the degree of crosslinks and the degree of chemical modification of the parent polyelectrolyte chain. Depending on the characteristics of the polymer nanoparticle (i.e. size, hydrophobic/hydrophilic character, degree of crosslinking, etc.) different molecules like dyes, pigments, agricultural and pharmacological active ingredients, and aromatics can be loaded into the polymer nanoparticles. Polymer nanoparticles made with this approach are typically smaller in size (10-50 nm) than those achievable using other methods. Data illustrating the different characteristics of the polymer nanoparticles such as hydrophobic/hydrophilic character, size, and the interactions of the polymer nanoparticles with different substrates will be presented.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 869 - 871
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5