Biomimetic macromolecular catalysts via miniemulsion polymerization.
by Sharma, Babloo; Striegler, Susanne
Continuous efforts are ongoing to provide biomimetic catalysts that allow the transformation of substrates when corresponding enzymes are not available. In this context, microgels provide an ideal platform for the development of enzyme-like catalysts, and allow to study and probe contributions of an immobilized metal complex catalyst and its immediate surroundings to the resulting catalytic turnover. To synthesize such microgels, we recently developed a UV-initiated protocol for radical polymns. at ambient temp. and below. Their catalytic performance during glycoside hydrolyzes in alk. soln. and at neutral pH will be discussed in detail.