To know:
1. pHEMA-co-indicator was synthesized by a) AIBN polymerization in EtOH and b) ATRP using CuBr, bpy, EtOH
2. Biggest issue: pHEMA-co-indicator shows poor solubility in any solvent. EtOH, MeOH, DMF, and 50:50 MeOH:water has been attempted. DMF seemingly the best solvent.
3. The organic molecule is essentially an aromatic core with sulfonate groups. Normally soluble in MeOH/DMF/DMSO. Not soluble once co-polymerized with pHEMA.
Goal: polymerizing this organic indicator which has a methacrylate handle (similar to fluoroscein methacrylate) onto pHEMA, and then casting as a film/hydrogel.
Thanks in advance for your help and suggestions :)