Receptor and transport properties of imprinted polymer membranes - a review

Over the last 10 years new types of polymeric materials with molecular reco gnition sites for low-weight organic substances have been prepared using th e molecular imprinting approach. In this review paper, in particular, the r ecognition and transport properties of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) membranes prepared thus far are summarized and analyzed. Microporous and ma croporous MIP membranes show the same receptor but largely different transp ort properties. The nature of selectivity of microporous MIP membranes is d iscussed and a descriptive model for transport selectivity via specific "ga tes" is developed. The high specificity and stability of MIPs render them a s promising alternatives to enzymes, antibodies, and other natural receptor s usually used in affinity chromatography and sensor technology. The applic ation potential of MIP membranes, especially for affinity separations, memb rane chromatography and membrane sensors, is outlined. Conclusions about th e possibilities to improve their performance are presented. In general, the se investigations open a way to the design of supramolecular devices that c ould perform highly selective functions such as recognition, transformation , transfer, regulation and allow signal and information processing. (C) 199 9 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.