Cross-linked hollow polymer particles by emulsion polymerization

Monodisperse cross-linked solid and hollow polymer particles which are poly(divinylbenzene) and poly(methylmethacrylate-co-divinylbenzene) particles were prepared in the sub-micron size by means of a seeded emulsion polymerization. The morphology of polymer particles depends on the composition of divinylbenzene (DVB) and methyl-methacrylate (MMA). At the DVB:MMA = 10:90 similar to 40:60, a hollow polymer particle is obtained. Due to the formation mechanism of the hollow polymer particles, it is likely that the stress concentration of the polymerization shrinkage must have occurred at the interface of the seed polymer on the inside of the cross-linked polymer particle, so that a void is developed. The obtained cross-linked polymer particles have an excellent thermal stability and unique optical properties. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.