Preparation and characterization of core-shell particles containing perfluoroalkyl acrylate in the shell

We describe the preparation and characterization of core-shell latex particles, consisting of a polystyrene core, covered with a perfluoroalkyl acrylate shell. The core-shell particles were prepared by a two-stage emulsion polymerization under kinetically controlled conditions and were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The surface properties of the latex films produced from the core-shell particles were investigated by the contact angle method. Compared with random copolymers or latex blends of styrene and perfluoroalkyl acrylate, the core-shell particles were the most effective to reduce the surface energy of the latex films. The effect of acetone as a cosolvent on the polymerization process was also considered.