Enhancing formation and retention of hollow structural integrity through intermediate and outermost layer design in seeded emulsion polymerization of hollow latex particles

The synthesis of hollow latex particles through seeded emulsion polymerization involves a series of intricate steps, including the formation of distinct polymer layers with specific properties. Despite extensive research, preserving the desired hollow structure remains challenging due to the unclear role of the encapsulating polymer layers. This study systematically adjusts the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the intermediate layer by varying the butyl acrylate (BA) ratio in the monomer feed mixture. By controlling the reaction temperature during alkali swelling, we explore the critical influence of Tg on hollow latex particle formation from carboxylated core latex particles. To ensure long-term hollow structure retention after drying, a rigid outer layer is polymerized onto the intermediate layer. Surprisingly, higher divinylbenzene (DVB) mass ratios (5.0 and 10.0 wt%) do not result in a highly crosslinked hollow shell due to DVB self-nucleation. This paper emphasizes the importance of precise design parameters for both intermediate and outermost layers in achieving and maintaining hollow latex particle structures. Understanding each layer's role and optimizing their compositions contribute to advancing hollow latex particle synthesis through seeded emulsion polymerization. image