Bayer MaterialScience LLC Scientist Explores UV-PUDs As A Green Coatings Solution

Pittsburgh, PA - Polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) offer coatings formulators an alternative approach to producing polyurethane coatings that are low in VOCs. They offer low solvent content, low odor and low temperature drying, among many other eco-friendly properties. Most importantly, they also offer the performance needed for superior coatings.

Michael Dvorchak, strategic UV specialist, Bayer MaterialScience LLC, explored the "ultimate green coatings solution" – ultraviolet (UV) curable PUDs – at the Philadelphia Society for Coatings Technology's May Symposium in his technical paper, UV Curable Polyurethane Dispersions: The Ultimate Green Coatings Solution.

Dvorchak's presentation explored the innovative processes behind UV curable PUDs and their application areas in depth. It began with an explanation of the idea and chemistry of UV cure PUDs, including the double bonds necessary for their functionality.

The presentation highlighted the characteristics of UV cure systems within waterborne coatings technology, including good recyclability and a high level of chemical resistance. It also detailed the wide variety of applications – ranging from decorative film and sheeting to doors and furniture, to open pore wood coatings and leather.

The presentation also focused on the physical processes involved with UV cure PUDs, including a demonstration of the film formation and curing of the PUDs and the methods of drying waterborne UV cure coatings. Dvorchak explored several classes of UV cure PUDs and the properties and benefits of each.

In addition, Dvorchak highlighted waterborne UV cure soft-touch coatings and their chemistry. Target markets for this technology include industrial coatings such as plastics, wood and printing. They offer the "green" benefits of UV curing, in addition to a performance level that is similar to standard 2K waterborne polyurethane systems.

SOURCE: Bayer MaterialScience LLC