Adsorption–Absorption Polymer Purification (AAPP): A Mass Transfer Strategy for Removing Residual Monomer from Synthetic Polymers
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: After polymerization, synthetic polymers frequently contain residual monomers, solvents, and other low molar mass compounds that can adversely affect material properties and subsequent applications. Their removal remains challenging, as conventional purification methods such as precipitation and dialysis are often time-consuming, difficult to standardize, and generate substantial amounts of solvent waste. Herein, an Adsorption–Absorption Polymer Purification (AAPP) method that combines a polymer immobilization through physisorption with a selective extraction of the corresponding residual monomer (or compounds) into a nonsolvent phase is introduced. Model polymers were employed to evaluate the performance of AAPP and to identify suitable operating conditions. Quantitative proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR) demonstrated near-complete removal of residual monomers within comparatively short purification times while preserving the molecular characteristics of the polymers. Furthermore, the purified polymers were recovered in high yields and successfully employed as precursors for subsequent block copolymer syntheses, confirming the retention of their functionality. It is also demonstrated that AAPP can be efficiently utilized for, at least, the multigram scale production of specialty polymers. These results demonstrate that AAPP provides an effective and versatile strategy for polymer purification and highlight the potential of coupling absorption and adsorption to mitigate transport limitations in purification processes.
Source: ChemRxiv
Language: English
Subfield: Organic Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223169984