Abstract: A method for the preparation of gel-free poly 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate substantially in the absence of a chain transfer agent, comprising introducing monomeric 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate containing ethylene glycol dimethacrylate impurities in the range of about 0.05 to 0.1% by weight into alcohol, polymerizing the 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate to form a polymerization mixture, and removing the alcohol. Hydrophilic pressure sensitive adhesives are provided by adding polyethylene glycol to the polymerization mixture prior to removing the alcohol.

Abstract: Inherently tacky, pressure-sensitive adhesive compositions useful in marking film applications are provided. The compositions comprise polymer particles prepared by emulsion polymerization of at least one monomer mixture. The monomer mixture comprises at least one alkyl acrylate, the alkyl group of which has from about 4 to 12 carbon atoms, preferably in an amount of from about 73% to 90% by weight, at least one unsaturated carboxylic acid containing from about 3 to 5 carbon atoms, preferably in an amount of from about 2% to 12% by weight, and at least one hard monomer, preferably present in an amount of from about 5% to 15% by weight. The particles have a mean diameter of about 300 nm or less, as determined by laser light scattering. Preferably the hard monomer comprises a styrenic monomer, more preferably both a styrenic monomer and an alkyl methacrylate. In some embodiments, the compositions are prepared by sequential polymerization of the first and second monomer charges.

Abstract: General purpose inherently tacky acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive polymers formed of alkyl acrylates, vinyl esters, diesters of dicarboxylic acid and saturated carbocylic acids, having improved properties, a lower residual monomer content and a reduced polymerization time are formed by a sequential polymerization process in which 50 to 95 percent, typically 90 percent, of the monomers are incrementally added to a reactor as a first charge containing substantially all of the vinyl esters, preferably all of the diesters of dicarboxylic acid, the balance of the monomers being fed in a second incremental charge.

Abstract: Inherently tacky, pressure-sensitive adhesive compositions useful in marking film applications are provided. The compositions comprise polymer particles prepared by emulsion polymerization of at least one monomer mixture. The monomer mixture comprises at least one alkyl acrylate, the alkyl group of which has from about 4 to 12 carbon atoms, preferably in an amount of from about 73% to 90% by weight, at least one unsaturated carboxylic acid containing from about 3 to 5 carbon atoms, preferably in an amount of from about 2% to 12% by weight, and at least one hard monomer, preferably present in an amount of from about 5% to 15% by weight. The particles have a mean diameter of about 300 nm or less, as determined by laser light scattering. Preferably the hard monomer comprises a styrenic monomer, more preferably both a styrenic monomer and an alkyl methacrylate. In some embodiments, the compositions are prepared by sequential polymerization of the first and second monomer charges.

Abstract: There is provided stock for labels and tapes having in the surface of a self supporting substrate and inherently tacky pressure-sensitive adhesive polymers prepared by emulsion polymerization and containing an interpolymerized amount of a reactive silicone acrylate polymer, an unsaturated carboxylic acid one or more alkyl acrylates, preferably a mixture of butyl acrylate and 2-ethylehexyl acrylate. Methyl acrylate and vinyl acetate are optionally present.

Abstract: An emulsified pressure sensitive adhesive is provided which is based on a polymer containing from about 95 to 97.5% by weight of an alkyl ester of acrylic acid and from about 2.5 to 5% by weight of a mixture of carboxylic acids and a three component anionic surfactant system. The polymer is preferably tackified.

Abstract: There is provided inherently tacky pressure-sensitive adhesive polymers prepared by emulsion polymerization and containing an interpolymerized amount of a reactive silicone acrylate polymer, an unsaturated carboxylic acid one or more alkyl acrylates, preferably a mixture of butyl acrylate and 2-ethylhexyl acrylate. Methyl acrylate and vinyl acetate are optionally present. The polymers have initial repositionability, long term permanence and excellent water resistance.