On activated seed swelling technique

The activated seed swelling technique is one of the promising methods in synthesis of micron‐sized monodispersed polymer particles. However, there are some parameters (eg the interference of acetone residue on particle swelling) that make this method difficult to carry out and even lead to a broad particle‐size distribution. Here, these parameters are studied and how to control them is discussed. The polydisperse seed swelling appeared at lower concentration of acetone and with incomplete evaporation of acetone from the system. The monodisperse swelling and larger particle sizes were achieved at higher concentration of acetone and longer evaporation time using a vacuum pump. These results suggest that the particle size and particle‐size distribution in the activated seed swelling technique can be controlled by the carrier (acetone) and the hydrophobe concentration in aqueous medium before and after the swelling process. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry