POSSIBILITIES OF SYNTHESIS OF UNCHARGED STABLE LATEX PARTICLES FOR IMMUNOANALYSIS

Objective: The objective of this study is to find a method for synthesizing uncharged polystyrene latex particles whose surface can be easily modified. Theoretical basis: The main method of latex synthesis is emulsion polymerization. Latexes for a specific purpose can be obtained by polymerization in heterogeneous monomer-water systems, without the use of emulsifiers, both with intensive mixing of the system and under static conditions. In this work, polymerization was carried out without the use of emulsifiers in a static monomer-water system. Method: To achieve the set goal, the possibility of obtaining latex particles using a hydrophobic initiator - ditrile of azoisobutyric acid - was investigated by carrying out polymerization in a diffusion mode in a three-phase system monomer - water - initiator. Results and discussion: The results of the study showed that the latex obtained in the three-phase system is stable. It is assumed that the stability is due to the presence of hydroxyl end groups groups of polymer molecules on the surface of the latex particles, which are formed as a result of the reaction of the initiator with water and initiate polymerization. The synthesized latexes retained stability for a year. Practical value: Latexes can be used in all those areas of science and technology where the absence of a charge on the surface of latex particles is required. Originality/value: The originality of the work lies in the fundamental simplicity of the synthesis and the unambiguity of the results obtained.