Generation of latex particles and phase formation in a heterogeneous static monomer–water system

The aim of this work is to find new ways to synthesize latexes (polymer suspensions) with a given size and surface structure of particles. The need for such latexes is not large-scale, but their development and production are extremely important for the development of high technologies. Monodisperse latexes are especially valuable in immunological diagnostics of a wide range of diseases. The article presents the results of studies of the nucleation of latex particles in a heterogeneous monomer–water system. The results of these studies made it possible to find conditions for the reproducible synthesis of monodisperse polystyrene latexes. In order to change the surface structure of latex particles, cetyl alcohol was dissolved in the initial monomer phase (styrene). The article presents the results of electron microscopic studies of the synthesized latexes. Nano crystals of this alcohol are clearly visible on the surface of the latex particles. It is suggested that, in deep monomer conversions, the process of crystallization of cetyl alcohol begins in polymer-monomer particles.