Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 22, 2026

Material Formation of Recombinant Spider Silks through Aqueous Solvation using Heat and Pressure
Published on: May 6, 2019
Swelling of latex particles-towards a solution of the riddle
Amit Tripathi1, Chunxiang Wei1, Klaus Tauer1
1Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, D-14424 Potsdam, Germany.
Abstract:
The assumption that during emulsion polymerization, the monomer molecules simply diffuse through the aqueous phase into the latex particles is a commonplace. However, there are experimental hints that this might not be that easy. Here, simulation results are discussed based on Fick's diffusion laws regarding the swelling of latex particles. The results of quantitative application of these laws for swelling of latex particles allow the conclusion that the instantaneous replenishment of the consumed monomer during emulsion polymerization requires a close contact between the monomer and the polymer particles.
Related Concept Videos
Colloidal precipitates
Colloids and Suspensions
Solution Formation
This selective...
Colloids
Solubility
A solution is a homogeneous mixture composed of a solvent, the major component, and a solute, the minor component. The physical state of a solution—solid, liquid, or gas—is typically the same as that of the solvent. Solute concentrations are often described with qualitative terms such as dilute (of relatively low concentration) and concentrated (of relatively high concentration).
In a solution, the solute particles (molecules,...
Precipitation Processes

