Synthesis and Application of Phase-Separated Acrylic Copolymer Dispersions
Sequential polymerization technique is a very powerful tool for polymer structure creation and allows the preparation of dispersions, polymer films and coatings with the desired balance of physical, chemical and mechanical properties. Core-shell species are the best-known phase-separated copolymers. The differences in core and shell composition are responsible for film forming, anti-blocking and optical properties, hardness, resistance, adhesion and ability to be spray-dried8,9. Structured polymers in the form of dispersions or redispersible powders (after the spray-drying step) are characterized by unique properties often superior to blends. One of the potential applications for those types of dispersion is the formulation of cosolvent-free paints and coatings. Other important and very new fields of interest are the application of structured polymers, mainly in powder form, in biology, biochemistry and medicine as nanoscale carriers for drug molecules, catalysts and viruses 10,11.
The aim of this work was to present a synthesis of sequential copolymer dispersions and their possible application as a paint binder and cement additive in the powder form after drying. Multi-stage polymerization procedures together with acid functionalization were chosen in order to reduce the tackiness of the final polymer and to promote the low-temperature film formation of the latex and the water redispersibility of the powder.