Core Shell Microgels with Controlled Structural Properties

What is it about?

Microgels are highly hydrated particles with size in the range of 0.5-10 micrometers. These micro-objects represent a platform for the next generation sensing materials. Here an example of complex structures core/shell to confine different compounds (i.e. a fluorescent dye, a monomer) in the different shells. Surface analysis by XPS, bulk analysis by AFM is provided with new insight on the organization of the shells.

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Why is it important?

The complex core/shell structures allow the confinement of fluorescent dyes, for encoding, and monomers, for functionalization of surface. The organization of the shells and the matrix forming copolymer have been investigated through XPS on preserved 3D structure and by in-situ imaging by AFM with relation to Peppas-Merril structural properties.