Synthesis and modification of epoxy- and hydroxy-functional microspheres

This article describes the synthesis and surface modification of epoxy- and hydroxy-functional polymeric microspheres. The functionalized microspheres were synthesized using aqueous and nonaqueous cationic suspension photopolymerizations using multifunctional silicon-containing epoxy monomers with iodonium salt photoinitiators. Although generally solid microspheres were obtained using these techniques, macroporous spheres could be obtained though the use of porogens. Various rapid and facile acid- and base-catalyzed ring-opening addition reactions were performed on the epoxy-functional microspheres. These reactions include the additions of mercaptans, acid chlorides, isocyanates, amines, sodium azide, water, and alcohols. Similar functionalization reactions were performed on the hydroxy-functional microspheres. The particle size and size distribution were determined using scanning electron microscopy. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to monitor the functionalization reactions.