Emulsion polymerization and the production of latex paints

The possible strnctnres which can be formed by a mixtnre of hydrocarbon oil, surfactant and water is illnstrated below in Fignre 5.2. The variation and complexity of these strnctnres has led to mnch research on potential indnstrial applications from tertiary oil recovery to enhanced drng delivery systems. Many of the strnctnres can be predicted using models based on the optimal cnrvatnre of the interface, not nnlike that nsed to predict snrfactant aggregation. 

The aim of the modern emnlsion painting process is to deposit a nniform, tongh polymer layer on a snbstrate. At first sight it may be thonght that simply dissolving the polymer (typically polyacrylic) in a snitable non-aqneons solvent wonld be snfficient. However, polymer solntions of the reqnired concentrations ( 50%) are very viscons and organic solvents are not acceptable for the home decoration market as well as being expensive. 

In commercial latex dispersions this is often a mixture of acrylic acid and butyl and ethyl acrylates. 

C12H25SH 0.2% This is a terminator or chain transfer agent to reduce the molecular weight of the resulting polymer. 

K2S20S 0.1% This is a thermal radical initiator that generates sulphate radicals. 

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The conditions required to form an emulsion of oil and water and a microemulsion. The complex range of structures formed by a microemulsion fluid. Emulsion polymerization and the production of latex paints. Photographic emulsions. Emulsions in food science. Laboratory project on determining the phase behaviour of a microemulsion fluid. 

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