Optically Transparent Polymer Aerogels Via Controlled Radical Polymerization

Citation

ACS Appl. Polym. Mater. 2022, XXXX, XXX, XXX-XXX Publication Date:February 8, 2022 https://doi.org/10.1021/acsapm.1c01854 © 2022 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society

Abstract

We present a class of porous polymer monoliths with high visible light transmittance and low haze synthesized using nitroxide-mediated stable free radical polymerization (SFRP), a form of controlled radical polymerization, to suppress large pore structures. Such materials can find applications in thermally insulated windows. Aerogels with adjustable optical and pore properties were achieved by modulating the nitroxide radical equilibrium. Controlled radical polymerization resulted in materials with average pore widths <10 nm, porosities of 43%, and high visible transmittance >60% (for 2.8 mm thickness). These results provide general design rules for radical polymerization of clear, colorless porous polymers.

View the publication (pdf)

Read more from SRI

  • surgeons around a surgical robot

    The SRI research behind today’s surgical robotics

    Intuitive’s da Vinci 5 system represents a major leap in robotic-assisted medicine. It all started at SRI, which continues to advance teleoperation technologies.

  • a collage of digital graphs

    A banner year for quantum

    SRI-managed QED-C’s annual report on quantum trends captures an industry accelerating rapidly from technical promise toward major global impact.

  • ICE Cube containing SRI’s aerogel experiment, photographed prior to launch. Source: Aerospace Applications North America

    An SRI carbon capture experiment launches into space

    By synthesizing carbon-absorbing aerogels in microgravity, SRI research will give us a rare glimpse into how these materials could be radically improved.