A polymer latex suitable for use in gypsum wallboard or other
applications. The polymer latex is a styrene butadiene latex that is
substantially stable against divalent ions. The polymer latex includes
styrene, butadiene, and an ionic monomer comprised of a
2-acrylamido-2-methyl propanesulfonic acid salt. The polymer latex may
also include hydrophilic adjunct comonomers. The latex includes at least
0.25 wt. % of the ionic monomer.