Efficient preparation of novel fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers/titanium dioxide nanocomposites

Abstract Novel fluoroalky end‐capped oligomers/titanium dioxide nanocomposites were prepared by the hydrolysis of titanium isopropoxide in the presence of fluoroalkyl end‐capped N‐(1,1‐dimethyl‐3‐oxobutyl)acrylamide oligomer [R_F‐(DOBAA)_n‐R_F], fluoroalkyl end‐capped N,N‐dimethylacrylamide oligomer [R_F‐(DMAA)_n‐R_F], and fluoroalkyl end‐capped acrylic acid oligomer [R_F‐(ACA)_n‐R_F] in tetrahydrofuran under mild conditions. In these fluorinated oligomers, R_F‐(ACA)_n‐R_F oligomer is more effective for the preparation of the corresponding oligomers/titanium dioxide nanocomposites, and this oligomer can afford the expected fluorinated titanium dioxide nanocomposites in higher isolated yields. In addition, R_F‐(ACA)_n‐R_F/titanium dioxide composites are nanometer size‐controlled very fine nanoparticles (14–48 nm), and exhibited a good dispersibility not only in water but also in traditional organic solvents. Fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers/titanium dioxide nanocomposites were also applied to the surface modification of the common organic polymers such as poly(methyl methacrylate) to exhibit a good oleophobic and hydrophilic characteristics on the surface. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers.