Particle formation in emulsion polymerization, 2. Aggregation of primary particles

Abstract

Abstract The formation and aggregation of primary particles in the beginning of emulsion polymerization was monitored by surface tension measurements, viscometry, electron microscopy, and static and dynamic light scattering. The dimensions of the primary particles in the emulsion polymerizations of vinyl acetate and methyl methacrylate are of the order of 3 – 5 nm. Immediately after the formation of primary particles these begin to aggregate. The stability of these particles is discussed and conclusions are drawn concerning the formation of new particles in the course of polymerization or in seeded polymerization experiments.