Waterborne Random Copolymers as Polymeric Surfactants for Emulsion Polymerization
Aitor Barquero1, Miren Aguirre1, Jurgen Scheerder2
1POLYMAT and Kimika Aplikatua Saila, Kimika Fakultatea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Joxe Mari Korta Zentroa, Tolosa Hiribidea 72, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
|February 16, 2026
Summary
Polymeric surfactants offer a superior alternative to traditional surfactants in waterborne acrylic polymer dispersions. They enhance coating performance by preventing leaching and improving properties like adhesion and water resistance.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Waterborne acrylic polymer dispersions commonly use low molar mass surfactants.
- These surfactants can negatively impact coating properties such as water resistance, adhesion, and barrier performance.
- Polymeric surfactants present a promising alternative to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application and benefits of polymeric surfactants in waterborne acrylic polymer dispersions.
- To discuss various types of polymeric surfactants and their synthesis methods.
- To explore the impact of polymeric surfactants on coating morphology and industrial applications.
Main Methods:
- Overview of polymeric surfactant types and synthesis methods (bulk, solution, emulsion polymerization).
- Detailed examination of polymeric surfactants synthesized via emulsion polymerization.
- Analysis of coating morphology and performance in industrial applications.
Main Results:
- Polymeric surfactants prevent leaching, thereby improving coating properties.
- Enhanced adhesion, water resistance, and barrier performance are observed with polymeric surfactants.
- Successful industrial applications in printing and packaging coatings are demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- Polymeric surfactants significantly enhance the performance of waterborne acrylic polymer coatings.
- Their design and synthesis are crucial for optimizing coating properties.
- Polymeric surfactants represent a key advancement for waterborne coating technologies.
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