this invention is directed to a method of preserving polymer emulsions against biodeteriogenic microbe attack and spoilage by combining with the polymer emulsions selected cationic compounds and an ethylenediamine acid compound . the polymer emulsions contain surfactants and / or anionic constituents . it is also directed to polymer emulsion compositions , that are resistant to spoilage by biodeteriogenic microbes , containing surfactants and / or anionic constituents , an ethylenediamine acid compound , and cationic compounds .