Emulsion
Polymerisation

Emulsion Polymerisation is a method in which polymers are prepared. The process of emulsion polymerisation consists essentially of forming an emulsion of a monomer, or a mixture of co-monomers, in an aqueous medium by the use of emulsifiers and then to polymerise the system in a controlled way with the use of an initiator.

The selection of suitable emulsifiers is complex and in some cases, anionics or nonionics can be used singularly but in most cases, an anionic/nonionic system is preferred as a way of increasing the stabilisation of the latex.

After many years of practical experience, we can provide starting surfactant recommendations for each polymer type listed. In most cases, the polymer chemist will need to evaluate the emulsifiers types, additional levels and ratios in order to obtain the required performance.