Crosslinking network structure effects on particle coagulation in the emulsion polymerization of styrene in methanol solution

Abstract

This work is an extension of previous research results reported by our team (Colloid Polym Sci 292:519–525; 1347–1353), where how to control particle size distribution by adjusting particle coagulation has been investigated. There is limitation in previous studies, that is, the particles taking part in coagulation only possess a linear structure. However, the crosslinking network structure is necessary to many fields, such as rubber and plastic modifier. Thus, it is very significant to investigate the effect of the crosslinking network structure on particle coagulation for understanding the nature of particle coagulation and controlling particle size distribution. In this manuscript, dihydrodicyclopentadienyl acrylate (DCPA) is chosen as a crosslinker to copolymerize with styrene to promote particle structure shift from the linear to the crosslinking network structure and to investigate further the coagulation behavior of the particles with the crosslinking network structure. Experimental results are explained by the collision frequency of particles and stability dependence of the particle structure.