Dispersants: Polymers: Hyper-branched Polymers
Another type of dendritic polymer, hyperbranched polymers are similar to dendrimers in that they possess a central core with many branches emanating from that core, resulting in a flexible, globular nanoparticle. However, unlike dendrimers, the branching pattern of hyperbranched polymers is completely random. The result is a nanomaterial with similar properties and lower production costs compared to dendrimers, but with a much less well-defined structure.
Hyperbranched polyethyleneimine (HDPEI) polymers have been found to be the most effective in dispersing oil. These molecules are able to host polyaromatic carbon structures (e.g. oil particles) because of their chelating properties. A chelating agent is a type of molecule that is able to form multiple bonds with metal ions and other substrates. |