Coalescence of latex particles in a water-based paint

Water-based paints are actually made from an emulsion of polymer particles with a size varying between 100 and 400 nm, stabilized by surfactants. During the drying process ,the water evaporates, the particles come in contact with each other and a good particle-particle adhesion is necessary to form a homogeneous and cohesive film. The control of the interdiffusion process of the polymers contained in the particle is essential for this good adhesion between particles and hence to obtain a paint film of good aspect and mechanical properties