Characterization and Synthesis of 2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate-Encapsulated Pigments by Emulsion Polymerization with Excellent Color Fastness and Stability

We synthesized polymer-encapsulated pigments with excellent properties by using only one monomer, such as 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA). The polymer-encapsulated pigments were synthesized by emulsion polymerization with aqueous dispersions of the pigments (C.I. pigment red 112, C.I. pigment blue 15:3, or C.I. pigment yellow 155), monomers (2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, 4-methylstyrene, alpha-methylstyrene, styrene, or butyl acrylate), and an initiator (potassium persulfate or azobisisobutyronitrile). We discussed the core–shell particles (polymer-encapsulated pigments) with a morphology map of the polymer–pigment system. The polymer-encapsulated pigments were used to dye nylon 6, polyester, and cotton. The polymer-encapsulated pigments had particle sizes of less than 200 nm and excellent ratings for dry rubbing fastness, washing fastness, and handling. We believe that polymer-encapsulated pigments show promise for use in textile inks.