Film formation from latex dispersions

The dominant, capillary forces operative in film formation of latex dispersions, and how theoretical models have dealt with them over the years are addressed. The force by the receding water surface is the dominant driving force. Capillary liquid bridge forces are less effective. Environmental relative humidity (RH) virtually does not influence these forces. With a light transmission technique, the effect of temperature and humidity on the film formation of a surfactant-free butyl acrylate latex was studied. Film formation is successful at temperatures higher than a value slightly below Tg. RH only slightly promotes film formation, presumably because water acts as a solvent. Also, the film promoting action of normal cosolvents as a function of concentration was clearly demonstrated.