Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the emulsion polymerization of free-radically polymerizable, ethylenically unsaturated main monomers, and optionally further auxiliary monomers copolymerizable therewith, wherein the polymerization comprises a polymerization reaction phase starting with the first addition of an initiator or starting with the first addition of monomers, whatever is later, and ending with the completion of the addition of the initiator or the completion of the addition of total monomers, whatever is later, wherein the reaction temperature is increased during said polymerization reaction phase from a start temperature in the range of about 30° C. to about 85° C. to an end temperature in the range of about 60° C. to about 160° C., and wherein the polymerization temperature is increased for at least 25% of the duration of said polymerization reaction phase.