Deformation mechanisms during latex film formation: Experimental evidence

During the deformation stage of latex film formation, a close-packed array of particles is consolidated to form a structure with volume fraction unity. There are a number of different possible driving forces to achieve this. Proposed mechanisms range from surface tension between polymer particles and either water or air to capillary forces at the water-air interface. We review the different driving forces and the literature supporting them. A recent model we have proposed predicts the conditions under which each mechanism operates. Experiments in the literature correlate well with our model, although the need for experiments with well-defined values for the critical parameters is highlighted.