| Abstract: | A heterogeneous model for the monomer–polymer particle in styrene emulsion polymerization is presented. In this model, the growing particle consists of an expanding polymer-rich core surrounded by a monomer-rich shell which serves as the major locus of polymerization. This core-shell model was suggested by kinetic studies with continuously uniform latices which showed that the systems of interest were of the Smith-Ewart case II type but that the dynamic—as opposed to equilibrium swelling—particle monomer concentrations were continuously variable. Supporting evidence for the suggested morphology was obtained by electron microscope observation of ultrathin sections of latex particles. |
