Scalable Synthesis of Photoluminescent Single-Chain Nanoparticles by Electrostatic-Mediated Intramolecular Crosslinking

We report the large-scale synthesis of photoluminescent single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) by electrostatic-mediated intramolecular crosslinking in a concentrated solution of 40 mg mL(-1) by continuous addition of the free radical initiator. Poly(vinyl benzyl chloride) was charged by quaternization with vinyl-imidazolium for the intramolecular crosslinking by using 2,2-dimethoxy-2-phenylacetophenone (DMAP) as the radical initiator. Under the electrostatic repulsion thus interchain isolation, the intrachain crosslinking experiences the transition from coil through pearl-necklace to globular state. The SCNPs demonstrate strong photoluminescence in the visible range when the non-emissive units are confined thereby. Composition and microstructure of the SCNPs are tunable. The photoluminescent tadpole-like Janus SCNP can be used to selectively illuminate interfacial membranes while stabilizing the emulsions.

Automated summary

In this study, we report the large-scale synthesis of photoluminescent single-chain nanoparticles through electrostatic-mediated intramolecular crosslinking in a concentrated solution. The photoluminescent properties of these nanoparticles are strong in the visible range when non-emissive units are confined within them. The composition and microstructure of these nanoparticles can be controlled, making them useful for selectively illuminating interfacial membranes and stabilizing emulsions.