I am trying to perform a reaction on a polymer which is a polyelectrolite at the same time. It needs cooling to 5-10 C. Upon cooling, a solution of the polymer forms a gel (looks like gelatin dessert). In such a way the reaction doesn't work.
How could I prevent gel formation? What kind of additive may help?
Water must be used as a solvent.
Such substances in the decreasing temperature tends to produce increased water binding by strong interactions. It is necessary to lower the temperature for the process that you raise? If this is the case, you should consider adding a dispersant, which depend on the particular reaction you plan to do next.
In some cases polyanions tend to form gelation i presence of divalent cations like calcium. If calcium or other divalent cations is present in your reaction it could be the case a gelly is formed at low temperatures.
If ion exchange and pH regulation are not possible, try to add formamide H2N-CHO and/or urea NH2CONH2. This reagents disrupt the hydrogen bonds - that is equivalent of thermodynamical temperature rising.
Any humactant would do the job. Modest addition of any glycol or glycerol can also be helpful if your system permits.
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