Synthesis and Characterization of Mesoporous Hypercrosslinked Poly (Styrene Co- Maleic Anhydride) Microspheres

Mesoporous hypercrosslinked styrene and maleic anhydride microspheres were prepared by suspension polymerization using a free radical initiator. Degree of crosslinking was increased by increasing the divinylbenzene content. Scanning electron micrographs revealed the introduction of definite compactness in the microspheres with increase in divinylbenzene content. The crosslinking degree affected the degree of swelling in organic solvents, and was found to be higher with lower concentration of divinylbenzene. Enhanced hydrogen adsorption was observed, indicating the polymer to be a promising material for hydrogen storage.