On the kinetics and particle size polydispersity of the styrene emulsion polymerization using aerosol MA80 and sodium dodecyl sulfate as surfactants

It is well known that narrower particle size distributions are obtained when Aerosol MA80 is used as surfactant in emulsion polymerization compared with other surfactants. Some researchers have published hypotheses to explain this characteristic of MA80; however, it is the opinion of the authors that there are other factors that must be taken into account. This work discusses, with emphasis on the amplitude of the PSD, the effect of the type and initial concentration of surfactant (SDS and MA80) on kinetic aspects of emulsion polymerization of styrene. Similarities and differences between the polymerizations effected with the surfactants under study are discussed in terms of the physicochemical behavior of the surfactants.