Ultralow Crosslinked Microgel Brings Ultrahigh Catalytic Efficiency.

Abstract

Microgel nanoreactors maintain the stability of metallic nanoparticles and regulate their catalytic activity. However, limited by the synthetic method, the recycling ability and long-lasting stability of microgel nanoreactors are challenged. Herein, a brand-new nanoparticle carrier, ultralow crosslinked poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-b-methacrylic acid) (P(NIPAm-b-MAA)) microgel, is synthesized based on the reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization method and the self-crosslinking mechanism of PNIPAm. This carrier enables the easy preparation, low cost, long-lasting stability, and high catalytic efficiency of nanoreactors. As far as it is known, the catalytic reduction rates of several dye models used in this work are the highest ones in similar systems. In addition, the presence of the MAA block leads to the agglomeration and dispersion of the microgels under different pH conditions, thus realizing rapid recycling of the nanoreactors. This novel carrier has great potential for a wide range of applications in catalysis.