10/29/2010
Microgel/clay nanohybrids as responsive scavenger systems 
(3829-3835) Polymer 51 #17 (2010)
Berger et al prepared microgel–clay composite particles were prepared by one-step surfactant–free precipitation polymerization. Laponite nanoparticles present in the reaction mixture become encapsulated during the microgel formation process. Microgel–clay composites based on poly(N-vinylcaprolactam-co-acetoacetoxyethyl methacrylate) containing different amount of incorporated clay nanoparticles were synthesized.  The size of the hybrid microgels was decreased from 700 nm to 100 nm by increase of the clay concentration in the reaction mixture. Obtained hybrid microgels exhibit negative surface charge and excellent colloidal stability.  Microgel–clay composite particles exhibit temperature-controlled uptake of the cationic dye, Methylene blue, and can be used as scavenger systems in aqueous media.  (RDC 12/19/2010)