Epoxy-Based Monoliths. A Novel Hydrophilic Separation Material for Liquid Chromatography of Biomolecules

In our efforts to develop novel hydrophilic monolithic porous materials for use as supports in liquid chromatographic separation of proteins, polymers based on epoxy monomers and diamines as curing agents were synthesized. The epoxy dispersed phase was emulsified in an aqueous phase containing the amine with the aid of a nonionic polymeric surfactant, and the resulting emulsions were thermally polymerized. Various factors, namely, the type of epoxy component, levels of reactants, type and concentration of diluents, and curing procedures, were studied to obtain suitable morphology and adequate mechanical properties for their intended use. Characterization of their morphologies and porous properties was done using scanning electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurement (BET method), mercury intrusion porosimetry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.