New Characterization Method for the Deflation of Pabu-Type Isotropic Networks

Abstract

After nearly three decades of development, molecular imprinting has emerged as a robust technique for the creation of selective recognition sites. Polymers have played a critical role in these advances, particularly molecular imprinting using low-molecular-weight mesogenic matrices. This study presents an innovative characterization strategy combining thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to study deflation kinetics in low-molecular-weight polymer networks. This methodology allows for accurate spectral analysis of network structural changes upon template removal, establishing clear correlations between thermal behavior and molecular interactions. These insights have led to the development of a novel spectral characterization technique optimized for polymer networks that facilitates noncovalent molecular imprinting. This approach improves control over the synthesis of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), providing better reproducibility in the creation of selective binding cavities. By systematically linking material properties to imprinting efficiency, this work advances the rational design of MIPs for applications ranging from biosensing to separation technologies, marking an important step in the optimization of imprinting materials.