Emulsion Polymerization of Vinyl Acetate Using Poly (acryl amide) as a Protective Colloid

Emulsion polymerization of vinyl acetate using poly (acryl amide) (PAAm) as a protective colloid was carried out in comparison with that using poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Unmodified PAAm showed no ability in the polymerization, while modified PAAm with n-dodecyl group at one end revealed rather good ability, with decrease in the degree of polymerization of PAAm. The former did not lower the surface tension of water, while the latter did to a large extent. Grafting ability was also investigated. The degree of grafting to PAAm was smaller than that to PVA. Ability of lowering the surface tension and capability of being grafted are important factors for a protective colloid.