Acrylic and styrene acrylic emulsions are polymers made of acrylic esters such as methyl methacrylate, butyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, acrylic acid, and often styrene. The emulsions can be water or solvent based.
Acrylic emulsions fulfill a broad range of functions. Depending on their chemical structure, their characteristics vary from good UV resistance, high abrasion resistance, strong adhesion to various substrate, elastomeric flexibility, and water proofing ability.
Acrylic emulsions are used frequently in the construction industry. They can be used to modify and seal cement and concrete mixtures, influence mechanical properties of paints, and even display a inherent resistance to fungi and algae.