Size-selective phase-transfer catalysis with interfacially cross-linked reverse micelles.

Cross-linking of the reverse micelles (RMs) of a triallylammonium surfactant afforded organic nanoparticles with introverted cationic groups. The cross-linked reverse micelles catalyzed size-selective biphasic reaction between sodium azide and alkyl bromides. Size selectivity of up to 9:1 was obtained for alkyl bromides with similar structures. The selectivity was influenced strongly by the size of the water pool and proposed to happen as a result of the "sieving" effect of the alkyl corona.