Design of molecularly imprinted polymer materials relying on hydrophobic interactions

The design of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for the specific binding hydrophobic molecules (mitotane) was investigated by considering monomers and cross-linking agents with variable character, methyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate lauryl as functional monomers, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate 1,6-hexanediol agents. MIPs were bound to a porous silica support means radical transfer reaction grafted 3-mercaptopropyl groups. Equilibrium adsorption isotherms non-imprinted materials modeled Volmer Langmuir–Volmer isotherms, giving thermodynamic parameters adsorption. most monomer provided highest selective although strong non-selective intrinsic softness poly(lauryl methacrylate) is detrimental selectivity. Adsorption exothermic predominant enthalpic contribution. kinetics fast due high accessibility molecular imprints on surface thin MIP layer coating support.