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Abstract
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In this study, four distinct polymerization strategies were systematically compared to fabricate poly(methyl methacrylate)
nano/microspheres (PMMA N/MSs) with tunable diameters ranging from 63 to 1200 nm. While individual PMMA synthesis
routes have been explored in prior research, a comprehensive experimental investigation comparing key polymerization
parameters across multiple techniques remains limited. Here, we examine the effects of initiator concentration, aqueous phase
volume, reaction time and temperature, rotation rate, and dispersion medium on particle size. Moreover, we evaluate the role
of additives such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in particle nucleation and stabilization.
This work uniquely demonstrates how fine-tuning process variables enables precise and reproducible size control across a
wide range of synthesis conditions. The results offer a cost-effective, scalable approach to PMMA N/MS fabrication and
provide a framework for modifying particle sizes for specific applications in biomedical engineering, coatings, and photonics.
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