Additives for waterborne coatings

Offentlig prosjektsammendrag

The coatings industry was originally dominated by solvent based formulations, where the the binder (the main component of paint) is made up of large amounts of organic compounds. Environmental regulations related to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere and raising concerns regarding the safety of the end users have triggered a progressive transition towards waterborne coatings. Water-based coatings, which use water as a solvent, lower the VOCs emissions making them eco-friendly. However, this transition between solvent- and water-based coatings brings challenges in the production of coatings additives. A completely new and different approach in terms of chemistry is required when working on the incorporation of additives for waterborne coatings, since the basic components of the paint, the binder mainly, are of a completely different nature (organic solvent vs water). The main goal of this project is to explore synthetic strategies for the development of novel polymers that can improve the properties of waterborne coatings. We aim to expand Dynoadd's existing knowledge in synthetic and polymer chemistry and to strengthen the coatings expertise of the Dynoadd group with the purpose of developing innovative high-end products for the coatings industry. Dynoadd works towards taking an active approach in this transition and aim to gain know-how on the chemistry and synthetic strategies to develop polymers that will significantly improve wetting and flow properties of coatings to avoid the formation of defects while at the same time lowering the foam intake in the coating. Going a step forward, it is also a goal to investigate and implement the use biobased materials in the development of additives and contribute to the development of eco-friendly products. The use of biobased materials in the development of additives is a recent but quickly growing trend that would strengthen the position of Dynoadd in the market.