Summary: A novel, stabilizer‐free dispersion polymerization with alkyl esters as reaction media gives uniform alternating microspheres of maleic anhydride (MAn)/vinyl acetate (VAc) copolymer. The diameter of the copolymer microspheres could be precisely controlled from 80 to 750 nm by changing the monomer concentration or feed ratio. Moreover, this new type of copolymer microspheres with reactive anhydride groups on the surface has good solubility in common nontoxic solvents such as water and ethanol.
SEM image of the powder surface of copolymer microspheres formed at [MAn] = [VAc] = 1.5 M .
