In Situ Studies of Dispersion Polymerization

With recent theoretical and experimental advances in the understanding of colloid and interface science of SCF systems, it is becoming possible to design surfactants for microemulsions, emulsions, and latexes on a rational basis. The- 

Thermodynamically stable microemulsions and kinetically stable emulsions may be utilized to bring water and nonvolatile hydrophilic substances, such as proteins, ions, and catalysts, into contact with a SCF-continuous phase (e.g. CO2) for separation, reaction and materials formation processes. Reactions between hydrophilic and hydrophobic substrates may be accomplished in these colloids without requiring toxic organic solvents or phase transfer catalysts. CO2 and aqueous phases may be mixed together over a wide range in composition in w/c and c/w emulsions. The emulsion is easily broken by decreasing the pressure to separate the water and CO2 phases, facilitating product recovery and CO2 recycle. Reaction rates can be enhanced due to the considerably lower microviscosity in a w/c as compared to a water-in-alkane microemulsion or emulsion. 

We acknowledge financial support from the Separations Research Program at the University of Texas, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy (DE-FG03-96ER14664) and the Texas Advanced Technology Program. 

Edited by Philip G. Jessop and Walter Leitner WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH, 1999 

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