The preparation and characterization of amphiphilic core/shell particles

Colloidal amphiphilic particles were prepared with hydrophilic polyacrylamide cores encapsulated by hydrophobic poly(butyl methacrylate) shells. The hydrophobic shell possessed a porous structure, which made the hydrophilic core accessible to the outside liquid. The amphiphilicity of the particles was characterized by their water and diesel oil absorbabilities. The effect of the polymerization conditions on the structure and thickness of the hydrophobic layer was investigated in some detail. Such amphiphilic particles can be dispersed in both water and hydrophobic liquids, and the dispersions have a long life in water and a more moderate one in oil.