The Effect of the Ratio of Methyl Metacrylate and Styrene on the Grafting Copolymerization of Natural Rubber Latex as an Emulsion Paint Binder
Abstract
The emulsion paint industry still relies heavily on conventional synthetic binders, such as acrylic and vinyl resins, which are derived from petrochemicals and pose sustainability and environmental concerns. This study explores the use of natural rubber latex as an alternative, more environmentally friendly binder through a graft copolymerization process with styrene and methyl methacrylate monomers. The reaction was carried out with the addition of 2% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) surfactant and 2% benzoyl peroxide (BPO) initiator. The success of the graft was confirmed by the appearance of distinctive peaks in the FTIR spectrum and the increase in the mechanical strength of the resulting binder. Application to emulsion paints demonstrated better performance than pure latex, particularly in adhesion, scrubbing resistance, and water resistance. In addition to improved technical performance, the use of natural rubber also offers advantages over synthetic acrylic binders, including local raw material availability, lower production costs, and a smaller environmental footprint. These results demonstrate that modified natural rubber latex has potential as an environmentally friendly binder for paint, providing a practical basis for the development of sustainable emulsion paint formulations that can support the competitiveness and independence of the national paint industry.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Trisuciati Syahwardini, Arya Arya Wiranata, Yogi Chandra, Fena Retyo Titani, Fia Dhatul Prima Kusuma, Putri Noviayu Salsabila Hendri, Yuniar Ahdya Sabella, Bahruddin Bahruddin
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