RAFT polymerization of MMA in channels of different mesoporous materials

A series of mesoporous silica (MS) materials, including rod-like and spherical SBA-15, MCM-41, MCM-48, was successfully synthesized modified by silane coupling agent γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane. The MS utilized as a microreactor for solution reversible addition–fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization methyl methacrylate (MMA) using xanthate chain azodiisobutyronitrile an initiator. Notably, had low specific surface area pore volume while maintaining the original morphological structure. Given to confinement effects, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) prepared from internal channels higher molecular weight initial thermal decomposition temperature than those conventional RAFT polymerization. Moreover, PMMA obtained SBA-15 MCM-48 exhibited highest (Mn = 8.78 × 104 Mn 7.43 104, respectively). This work provided novel approach in designing polymer microstructure more comprehensive application, such drug release.