The polymer industry is dominated by the use of petroleum-based feedstock and, as a result of increased awareness, the related environmental consequences have provided the impetus for change. Emulsion polymerization is considered to be a more sustainable technique for the manufacture of polymeric materials because of its use of water as a dispersing medium. To further improve the sustainability of emulsion polymerization technology, the “12 principles of green chemistry and engineering” were used as a guideline for design of a greener process. The most obvious and effective approach is to use renewable, biobased feedstock in emulsion polymerization formulations. In addition, maximizing energy efficiency, preventing waste and pollution, and minimizing the potential for accidents also figure prominently.
