Synthesis of amphiphilic network copolymers based on poly(ester dimethacrylates)

Poly(ester dimethacrylate) has been synthesized by condensation of the E >-caprolactone-based macromonomer and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate with dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate. Network copolymers of different compositions capable of swelling in water, THF, and toluene are obtained by the free-radical copolymerization of poly(ester dimethacrylate) with N-isopropylacrylamide or 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. The rate constants and equilibrium swelling indices of network copolymers in these solvents are measured. The amphiphilic properties of the network copolymers can vary in a wide range depending on the composition of copolymers and the nature of a hydrophilic monomer. The copolymers of poly(ester dimethacrylate) with N-isopropylacrylamide are characterized by pronounced thermal sensitivity.