Recent developments in the functionalization of latex particles

A survey of the recent literature is given concerning the synthesis and characterization of functionalized latex particles. Two main methods have been particularly considered and discussed: first, the functionalization of latexes by copolymerization of a basic monomer with adding small amount of a monomer bearing a chemical reactive group, with a special emphasis on the kinetics, the distribution of the functional monomer, the surface morphology of latex particles and the optimization of processes; secondly, the use of surface‐active monomers in such reactions which may confer potential advantages (low level of water‐soluble polymers, control of surface charge density) in comparison with the former ones, provided further information can be obtained on their kinetic behavior in emulsion polymerization.