Film formation and mechanical properties of the alkoxysilane-functionalized poly (styrene-co-butyl acrylate) latex prepared by miniemulsion copolymerization

Alkoxysilane-functionalized poly (styrene-co-butyl acrylate) latex was prepared via miniemulsion copolymerization of γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS), styrene and butyl acrylate using AIBN at neutral condition. The effects of initiator types, pH values, and MPS contents on the premature cross-linking of the latex particles and the mechanical properties of the films were investigated by the swelling experiments and dynamic mechanical analysis. It was found that the storage modulus of the latex films and the glass transition temperature (T_g) increased with increasing MPS content. The acidification of latex prior to film formation and annealing the latex films could improve the mechanical properties of the films.