Microlatex dispersions with ca. 120 m(2) bipyridine-functionalized surface per g polymer were synthesized via copolymerization in microemulsion using two new comonomers containing bipyridine groups. The resulting polymer particles were used for binding diverse metal ions in water as well as in organic solvents. Binding of the ions usually occurs intramolecularly. The colloidal characteristics of the dispersions are preserved.