Characterization of Aqueous Polymer Dispersions

Aqueous polymer dispersions and the polymer films that form from them exhibit a diverse and complex range of properties. Moreover, these systems possess a marked heterogeneity at the mesoscopic level and their characterization is therefore a difficult task. In addition to determining the macroscopic properties of the dispersion (Sect. 3.2.1), characterization requires investigating the polymer particles themselves (Sect. 3.2.2), the residual volatile content (Sect. 3.2.3) and the aqueous phase (Sect. 3.2.4). It is also important to understand the process of film formation (Sect. 3.3.1) and to be able to describe the macroscopic and microscopic properties of the film (Sects 3.3.2 and 3.3.3). 

Given the large number of parameters and the numerous techniques employed to measure them, this article can only hope to provide a broad overview of this vast subject area. For more detailed descriptions of the various measurement methods, the 

Beyond the general physical and chemical characterization of dispersions and polymer films, a large number of application-specific tests exist. In this chapter, 

In most of the applications the determination of the solids content is the first part of any routine characterization of emulsion polymers, since it is the polymer and not the water which is used in the final product. 

Typically, the dispersion is dried to constant mass at a temperature of between 100 and 140 °C (see, for example, ISO 1625) and the solids content is then expressed as the percentage ratio of the dry matter to the total mass of the sample. 

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I 3 Characterization of Aqueous Polymer Dispersions laser. -s- sample... 

This book focuses on the appHcations of aqueous polymer dispersions. The chapters on synthesis and characterization should be regarded as an introduction and should aid understanding of the appHcations. The appHcations of aqueous polymer dispersions have developed differently, both historically and regionally. Regulatory issues have contributed to these differences. The strongest development of polymer dispersions occurred in Europe and North America in the middle of the 20th century. The differences between these two regions are emphasized. 

While an invaluable tool in producing conjugated polymers on conducting substrates, electropolymerization has limitations that include a lack of primary structure verification and characterization along with the inability to synthesize large quantities of processable polymer. To overcome the insolubility of PEDOT, a water-soluble polyelectrolyte, poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) was incorporated as the counterion in the doped PEDOT to yield the commercially available PEDOT/PSS (Baytron P) (39), which forms a dispersion in aqueous solutions [140]. While this polymer finds most of its application as a conductor for antistatic films, solid state capacitors, and organic electronic devices, its electrochromism is distinct and should not be ignored. 

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