Aqueous polymer emulsions were prepared by chemical modifications of thermosetting alternating polyketones in a one-pot reaction. Polymeric amines derived from the polyketones can act as polymeric surfactants for the self-emulsification of polyketones. The stability and structure of the emulsions with respect to the storage time at room temperature (20 degrees C) at different experimental conditions were thoroughly studied by dynamic light scattering, rheology and Cryo-SEM. Emulsions with an average particle size smaller than 1 pm and a viscosity less than 1 Pa-s could be achieved and remained stable for at least 1-year. The prepared emulsions were qualified as wood adhesives for wood composite industry, according to the European Standard for wood adhesive testing. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.