Synthesis of silane monomer-modified styrene–acrylate microemulsion coatings by photopolymerization

A relatively concentrated silane monomer-modified styrene–acrylate microemulsion coating with high monomer to surfactant ratio of 7.5:1 has been prepared by microemulsion photopolymerization. The properties and the structure of the microemulsion coatings were investigated using TEM, FTIR and UV–vis measurements. The microemulsions are transparent with high transmittance in the visible range. The particle sizes of the produced latexes are in the range of 34–52 nm with the number average diameter of 40.9 nm and Dw/Dn of 1.16. FTIR spectrum indicates the possible structure of the silane monomer-modified styrene–acrylate copolymer, and confirms the hydrolysis and condensation resulting in siloxane bonds between polymer particles. The microemulsion coatings show enhanced acid, base and water resistance with decrease of surfactant content and increase of silane coupling agent.