Shell Protection of Styrene-Rich Core Polymer for Exterior Paint Durability

The study addresses the inherent photo-oxidative degradation of styrene-rich polymers by altering their morphology. The synthesis of core-shell polymers of styrene and acrylates by emulsion polymerization process has been reported. The core polymers are styrene-based copolymers with a glass transition (Tg) of 60°C, while the shell polymers are polyacrylates with a Tg of 0°C. The core-shell structure of the polymers is confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The emulsion polymers are characterized by various properties, including particle size, viscosity, % non-volatile material, free monomer content, and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. These emulsion polymers are then evaluated for use in exterior paint. The paint properties examined include tensile strength and elongation at break. Additionally, the yellowing behavior of paint containing styrene-rich latex particle is studied using QUV testing. The results indicate that it is feasible to prepare non-yellowing styrene-rich polymer for use in exterior durable paint.