Asymmetric Janus and Gemini ZrP-PNIPAM monolayer nanoplates were obtained by exfoliation of two-dimensional layered ZrP disks whose surface was covalently modified with thermosensitive polymer PNIPAM. The nanoplates largely reduced interfacial tension (IFT) of the oil/water interface so that they were able to produce stable oil/water emulsions, and the PNIPAM grafting either on the surface or the edge endowed the nanoplates rapid temperature responsivity. The ZrP-PNIPAM nanoplates proved to be thermosensitive Pickering emulsifiers for controlled-release applications.
Keywords: PNIPAM; Pickering emulsifier; ZrP; asymmetric nanoplates; controlled-release; thermosensitive.