Polymer latex containing carboxylic acid functional groups. II. Humidity-sensitive properties of rigid films made from MMA and AA

The polymer latexes of poly(MMA-AA) were synthesized using two techniques: soapless seeded emulsion polymerization, and soapless emulsion copolymeriza tion. Then a series of rigid polymer films containing a COOH group were pre pared from the synthesized latex. The humidity-sensitive properties of the polymer films were investigated. Our studies confirmed that there exists bo th an optimum ratio of hydrophilic to hydrophobic monomers and initial stru cture of the latex particle that provides the humidity-sensitive polymer fi lm with excellent water resistivity and sensitivity to humidity. In additio n, little hysteresis and quick response were observed. (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.