Polymerization in microemulsion-size and surface control of ultrafine latex particles

Abstract

Polymerization in microemulsion allows for the synthesis of latices with sizes of 10 nm ≤ R ≤ 60 nm. In the system styrene/cetyltrimethylammoniumchloride/water, the particle size is controlled by the relative amount of surfactant to styrene and can be predicted by a simple three-phase picture of the microemulsion. Polymeric surfactants reveal a more complex behavior which prohibits an effective size control. — The particle surface is easily modified by addition of functional comonomers or additives which are incorporated in the interface. The additives stabilize or poison the original microemulsions. The results of the sucessful modification are highly reactive particles with a larger inner surface which can be used for different purposes. For example, the synthesis of a material with the ability of selective ion binding is described.