Interpolymer complexes
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Interpolymer complexes (IPC) are the products of non-covalent interactions between complementary unlike macromolecules in solutions.[1] There are four types of these complexes:
- Interpolyelectrolyte complexes (IPEC) or polyelectrolyte complexes (PEC)[2]
- Hydrogen-bonded interpolymer complexes[3]
- Stereocomplexes[4]
- Charge-transfer complexes[5]
Formation of interpolymer complexes
Interpolymer complexes can be prepared either by mixing complementary polymers in solutions or by matrix (template) polymerisation. It is also possible to prepare IPCs at liquid-liquid interfaces or at solid or soft surfaces. Usually the structure of IPCs formed will depend on many factors, including the nature of interacting polymers, concentrations of their solutions, nature of solvent and presence of inorganic ions or organic molecules in solutions. Mixing of dilute polymer solutions usually leads to formation of IPCs as a colloidal dispersion, whereas more concentrated polymer solutions form IPCs in the form of a gel.
Methods to study interpolymer complexes
Applications of interpolymer complexes
IPCs are finding applications in pharmaceutics in the design of novel dosage forms.[8][9][10] They also are increasingly used to form various coatings using layer-by-layer deposition approach.[11] Some IPCs were proposed for application as membranes and films.[12] They also have been used for structuring of soils to protect from erosion.[13] Other applications include encapsulation technologies.[14]