Adsorption and Release of Active Species Into and From Multifunctional Ionic Microgel Particles

In this report, we synthesize monodisperse ionic microgel particles which undergo large volume phase transitions in response to environmental stimuli such as pH and temperature. In addition, the study elucidates the effective encapsulation and release of rheology modifiers from these microgel particles to alter the bulk viscosity of a surrounding fluid. Moreover, these ionic microgel particles demonstrate abilities to adsorb and repel iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄-NPs) upon pH variation. The extent of the loading of Fe₃O₄-NPs within the colloidal particles and morphology can be manipulated by tunable interactions between the Fe₃O₄-NPs and ionic microgel particles.