A novel surface functionalization method for producing carboxyl-functional poly(methyl styrene) latexes

A facile synthesis of functionalized poly(methyl styrene) latexes containing aldehyde and carboxylic acid groups using anionic and cationic surfactants or an emulsifier-free system is described. The synthesis involves an emulsion polymerization of methyl styrene, followed by a copper (II)-catalyzed aqueous oxidation with t-butyl hydroperoxide under air. Investigation of the effect of metal catalyst, oxidant, surfactant and reaction temperature in these systems are discussed. Properties of the resulting functional latexes including their chemical structure, concentration of functional groups in the surface layer, particle size, size distribution, morphology, and stability are also studied.