Polymerizable and nonpolymerizable isophthalic acid derivatives as surfactants in emulsion polymerization

This article presents an initial study on the use of polymerizable and nonp olymerizable isophthalic acid derivatives as novel emulsifiers in emulsion polymerization. The polymerization process and the final latex properties a re compared to latices made under the same conditions with commercial surfa ctants: sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and potassium pentadecanoate (C15A). T he use of the difunctional isophthalic acid appears to increase the stabili ty of the polymer dispersion. This stabilization effect was further improve d by introducing polymerizable derivatives. This kind of emulsion polymeriz ation process is a new way of creating functional nanoparticles.