The Al(OH)(3)/acrylic copolymer latexes were synthesized through the emulsion polymerization of acrylic monomers, butyl acrylate and 2-ethylhexyl acrylate in the presence of surface-functionalized Al(OH)(3) filler particles. The polymerization was stabilized by polyoxyethylene (50) nonyl phenyl ether (NP-1050, non-ionic surfactant) and ammonium (POE) alkyl aryl ether sulfate (EU-S133D, anionic surfactant) to produce stable composite latexes. The improved compatibility of Al(OH)(3) surface with acrylic monomers was achieved by the modification with 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (gamma-MPS). Transmission electron microscopy showed that nano-sized Al(OH)(3) particles were slightly agglomerated in the copolymer latex. When pristine Al(OH)(3) was used as a filler or gamma-MPS-modified Al(OH)(3) particles were added above 30 wt% with respect to monomers, unstable latexes were obtained, which were partially precipitated out on standing for prolonged time. The flame retardation effect was not apparent with the incorporation of Al(OH)(3) in the latexes by 30 wt% as shown by LOI test. (C) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2010