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Emulsion Polymerisation and Latex Applications
Smithers Information Ltd, June 2003, Pages: 156
Latexes are currently under going extensive research and development as key replacement materials for many solvent-based systems. They are being used in a broad range of fields from adhesives, inks, paints, coatings, drug delivery systems, medical assay kits, gloves, paper coatings, floor polish, films, carpet backing and foam mattresses to cosmetics. Latex is also used to improve properties, for example as an impact modifier in polystyrene and to improve tensile properties in cement. Currently, more than 8 million dry metric tons of latex are produced globally each year.
Natural rubber latex is only one of the many types of latex currently in use. The term latex covers emulsion polymers, polymer dispersions and polymer colloids. Latexes are liquids (typically aqueous) in which microscopic polymer particles are dispersed. They are formed by the polymerisation of monomer emulsions. Solvent-based latexes do exist, but have limited applications. However, the use of organic solvents in latexes is discouraged for environmental reasons. In fact, the desire to discontinue the use of solvent-based polymer solutions has been a major driving force for the development of water-based latexes.
The different methods of emulsion polymerisation are reviewed here. Each technique has advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, control over the polymerisation process and stability of the resulting emulsion. Monomer feed systems can also be used to control reactions and polymer composition. In some techniques very uniform polymers and latex particles can be produced. Particle structure is important and can be varied or maintained uniform during the process, depending on the system.
The low viscosity of latexes allows a high rate of heat transfer during polymerisation and excellent flow over substrates to be coated. Water can then be evaporated to form a polymer film.
The technology and science of emulsion polymerisation are described clearly and succinctly in this review from two authors who are at the forefront of latex research and development. The text is referenced extensively to permit further reading on this subject.
Quality control is an important feature. The different tests and analytical methods used on latex polymers are discussed.
The review is accompanied by around 400 abstracts from papers and books in the Rapra Polymer Library database, to facilitate further reading on this subject. A subject index and a company index are included.
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