Diblock Copolymers of Methacryloyloxyethyl Phosphorylcholine and Dopamine Methacrylamide: Synthesis and Real-Time Adsorption Dynamics by SEIRAS and RAIRS

Amphiphilic diblock copolymers containing a block of 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) with unique properties to prevent nonspecific protein adsorption and enhance lubrication in aqueous media and a block of dopamine methacrylamide (DOPMA) distinguished by excellent adhesion performance were synthesized by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization for the first time. The DOPMA monomer with an acetonide-protected catechol group (acetonide-protected dopamine methacrylamide (ADOPMA)) was used, allowing the prevention of undesirable side reactions during polymerization and oxidation during storage. The adsorption behavior of the diblock copolymers with protected and unprotected catechol groups on gold surfaces was probed using attenuated total reflection (ATR)-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (SEIRAS), and reflection–absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS). The copolymers pMPC-b-pADOPMA demonstrated physisorption with rapid adsorption and ultrasound-assisted desorption, while the copolymers pMPC-b-DOPMA exhibited chemical adsorption with slower dynamics but a stronger interaction with the gold surface. SEIRAS and RAIRS allowed proving the reorientation of the diblock copolymers during adsorption, demonstrating the exposure of the pMPC block toward the aqueous phase.