Stimuli-Responsive PNIPAM Based Copolymers: Modeling and Light Scattering Investigations

Temperature dependent behavior of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) copolymers was investigated in three buffer-stabilized environments. The tests were performed in thermostabilized goniometer by dynamic and static light scattering. From the dynamic light scattering hydrodynamic radius was obtained. Based on the static light scattering data, calculations of the particle radius from the form factor model were done. Depending of the kind of copolymer, the different material response to temperature was observed. Also the characterization of dry particles was done by scanning electron microscope. These scanning electron microscopy micrograms showed the possibility of particles to aggregation.