Synthesis of tunable thickness-to-diameter ratio microcapsules via a diffusion-controlled process for temperature-responsive release

Abstract

Designing microcapsules with a complicated functionalized shell to respond to an external stimulus has attracted much attention for triggered release; however, simplifying the synthesis process remains a significant challenge. Herein, we initially propose a novel, simple synthesis strategy that utilizes a mixed solvent as the organic phase to control the diffusion of common monomers during interfacial polymerization, resulting in the successful preparation of microcapsules with tunable thickness-to-diameter ratios (T/D). The morphology of microcapsules is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. We also observe that the T/D of the designed microcapsules progressively increases as the diffusion of monomers occurs, and the glass transition temperature of microcapsules is controlled. Furthermore, microcapsule-based crosslinking agents are applied to investigate the crosslinking reaction of poly(vinyl chloride). Rotational rheometer results indicate that the microcapsules exhibit an excellent external stimulus response, precisely triggering release at the predetermined temperature. This simple approach for the preparation of microcapsules with tunable physical properties has great potential for triggered release in diverse applications.