Emulsion Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization

The main challenge of the application of atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) to emulsion polymerization systems is the latex stability and the controllability of the polymerization. This paper reviews a series of factors that affect the controllability of the polymerization and the stability of the latex, the mechanistic aspect and applications of the emulsion atom transfer radical polymerization. The hydrophilic-lipophilic features of surfactants and chemical nature of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic moieties, partitioning of the catalyst/ligand complex between monomer and water, solubility of initiators, temperature, and reactant concentrations are the main aspects that affect the latex stability and the controllability of the polymerization. The emulsion atom transfer radical polymerization mechanism is complicated by the solubility and partitioning of various species in aqueous and organic phases. The emulsion atom transfer radical polymerization combines the characteristics of the living radical polymerization and emulsion polymerization, which will lead to a great perspective in theoretical researches and industrial applications.