Interaction of polyvinylpyrrolidone with small cosolutes in aqueous and non aqueous media

The properties of dilute solutions of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in aqueous and non-aqueous solvents in the presence of small molecules are studied by measurements of intrinsic viscosity, [η]. The unperturbed dimensions are determined in pure solvents and in solvent mixtures. There are different unperturbed states, depending on the solvent and the solvent/cosolute mixture. These results are discussed on the basis of the nature of the side group interaction with the solvent and the cosolute. The role of the preferential adsorption of one of the cosolute on the polymer was considered. It would seem that the solvent plays an important role in the type of interaction.