Synthesis of Polystyrene-b-poly (n-butyl acrylate)-b-polystyrene Triblock Copolymers as Binder for Pigment Dyeing

Well-controlled polystyrene-b-poly(n-butyl-acrylate)-b-polystyrene (PSt-b-PnBA-b-PSt) triblock copolymers were prepared by RAFT (reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer) emulsion polymerization process. The mechanical properties of the triblock copolymers were investigated in comparison to the P(nBA-co-St) statistical copolymers. When the PSt content is 20%, the ultimate tensile strength of triblock copolymer is nearly six times the strength of statistical copolymer, while their modulus are all around 3.0 X 10(3) Pa. The triblock copolymer films feel smooth and non-tacky as the PSt content is higher than 20%. It indicates that PSt-b-PnBA-b-PSt triblock copolymers can be used as binders in pigment dyeing, providing the dyed fabrics with soft non-tacky handle and good fastness properties.