Alkali-swellable multi-functional rheology modifiers

Abstract

Alkali-swellable rheology modifier comprising a core-shell polymer comprising a core polymer and a shell comprising at least one shell copolymer layer at least partially cross-linked and containing a mole percent of crosslinking agent greater than the mole percent of crosslinking agent in the core polymer, provided if the mole percent of crosslinking agent in the core polymer is zero, then either the core polymer is greater than 60 wt % of the core-shell polymer; the core polymer comprises at least one associative monomer; at least one shell copolymer layer copolymer comprises at least one associative monomer; and/or the at least one shell copolymer layer that is at least partially cross-linked comprises greater than 3 mole % crosslinking agent. Aqueous compositions comprising the alkali-swellable rheology modifier include personal care formulations, healthcare formulations, agricultural formulations, paint formulations, coating formulations, laundry and fabric care formulations, household cleaning formulations, and industrial and institutional cleaning formulations.