Functionalized core-shell polymers prepared by microemulsion polymerization

In this work we present a novel process for the preparation of latex with high solid content, but maintaining the characteristics of microemulsion polymerization latex, small particle size (<50 nm) and polymer with high molecular weight (>106). With the polystyrene latex obtained by microemulsion polymerization as seed, core-shell, styrene-butyl acrylate polymers functionalized with itaconic acid were prepared. Materials were characterized by DSC, DMTA and TEM. These polymers have better mechanical properties than the non functionalized or those prepared by emulsion polymerization