Preparation of gradient copolymers via ATRP using a simultaneous reverse and normal initiation process. I. Spontaneous gradient

Spontaneous gradient copolymers were prepared in both bulk and miniemulsion systems via Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) utilizing a Simultaneous Reverse and Normal Initiation (SR & NI) process. Both instantaneous and cumulative compositions were used to characterize the gradient copolymers. The gradient copolymers were obtained with an array of gradient compositions ranging from a subtle to strong variation in monomer distribution along the polymer backbones, depending on the ratio of comonomers initially added to the copolymerization system. The compositions of the gradient copolymer produced in miniemulsion systems were similar to those generated in bulk. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.