Innovative Water-Based Polymer Technologies

Innovative Water-Based Polymer Technologies for Industrial Coatings and Printing Industries In many applications such as wood coatings or the printing industry, formulations based on modern acrylate polymer technologies deliver excellent coating results while also offering the advantages of water-based coating materials. From an environmental perspective, it provides safe and easy handling during processing for both industrial and do-it-yourself (DIY) applications. Solvent-based paints contain organic compounds at higher rates than water-based paints. However, the evaporation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere and the resulting intense odour and toxic effects, combined with environmental awareness and relevant regulations, restrict the use of these paints, requiring paint manufacturers to significantly reduce the VOC content of their products. Beyond environmental and human health requirements, paint manufacturers face evolving quality requirements, with producer and end-user expectations increasingly rising, particularly regarding the appearance, feel or durability of high-performance coatings. To address these challenges, Zschimmer & Schwarz provides application-specific innovative water-based polymer technologies to manufacturers, meeting the highest standards of quality and cost-effectiveness. Different polymer technologies and their product properties are listed below.

Polymer Technologies by Application

1. Interpenetrating Network Polymer Technology IPN (Interpenetrating network) contains two different ionic structures with neutral pH value within the same polymer network. Polymers generally exhibit anionic behaviour and can therefore be formulated as an anionic polymer. Cationic functions subsequently develop during drying and provide excellent tannin, stain and paint coverage without the compatibility issues commonly encountered in cationic polymers. Adhesion to various material surfaces such as aluminium, PVC or wood has also been improved. At the same time, requirements for materials containing volatile organic components (VOC) in the formulation are low. Properties • Providing cationic functions in anionic formulations, • Excellent stain coverage and stain prevention against difficult stains such as tannin, paint and nicotine, • High compatibility with other resins and additives, • Low VOC requirements for formulating coatings.

2. Multiphase Polymer Technology

Multiphase polymer technology, using a two-stage synthesis process, combines two different polymer types within the same polymer network. This technology achieves further development of the physical properties of both polymers by creating a balanced combination. Material properties exhibiting good hardness and chemical resistance, balanced with a moderate film formation temperature (FFT), present particular advantages for applications in the wood sector. The use of this technology has also eliminated or significantly reduced the need for emulsifiers. As a result, some of these products have received approval for applications involving indirect food contact due to their compliance with FDA and Swiss regulations. Properties • Very low or zero emulsifier content, • Good balance between hardness, chemical resistance and film formation, • Excellent adhesion even in multiple layers, • FDA approval for indirect food contact, • Swiss regulations approval.

3. Self-Matting Polymer Technology

Zschimmer & Schwarz has achieved the production of a self-matting acrylate polymer using a proprietary process and made it available for use in the paint industry. This technology provides film formation with low gloss after drying, high flexibility and excellent stability, while achieving effective adhesion on various material surfaces. These specially developed polymers are not "liquid matting agents" but rather a mat binder in themselves and can be formulated like a conventional (water-based) acrylic polymer, replacing another binder used. They can be used as a single binder or in combination with polyurethanes. Foam formation is low and the requirement for volatile organic compounds is minimal. By completely eliminating the inclusion of solid matting agents, which cause loss of time and labour, the formulation becomes much simpler, more stable and more economical. Unlike conventional matting agents, the mat polymer also has excellent transparency. Properties • Easy formulation and low foaming, • Low VOC requirement, • Stable structure preventing polymer precipitation.

4. Wax-Hybrid Technology

Wax-hybrid technology is a patented process combining wax and acrylate within a single polymer network. This technology prevents the wax from blooming to the surface during drying, thereby achieving more homogeneous film formation that improves the appearance and performance of the coating. The hybrid polymer is compatible with other water-based polymers through its anionic behaviour. Positive effects from wax use can be observed in the products, providing high shear and abrasion resistance as well as improved water resistance. These important properties can be optimally utilized in applications. Properties • Wax grafted into the polymer network, • Homogeneous distribution in both liquid and solid phases, • Enhanced abrasion resistance, • Improved water resistance, • Soft and flexible structure, scratch repair and gloss restoration, • Shear resistance. Zschimmer & Schwarz is a global manufacturer and supplier with headquarters in Lahnstein near Koblenz, Germany. Founded in 1894 as a family company in Chemnitz, it operates across different sectors. The Zschimmer & Schwarz group operates in 17 countries across five continents and consists of a total of 30 companies, 22 of which have their own production facilities. Its core service area is the development, production and supply of specially prepared chemical auxiliary agents for the leather, fur, ceramics, textile and chemical fibre industries. It has achieved brand recognition and product reliability among manufacturers of cleaning products, personal care products, paints and coatings, lubricants and industrial applications worldwide. The paints and coatings group's product portfolio is designed for a wide range of end-use applications from industrial coatings to printing technologies. Special technologies and materials are provided for processing and coating surfaces such as wood, paper, metal, textile and concrete. Innovative polymer technologies adapted to applications and requirements support customers' formulation development processes. With over a century of experience and advanced environmental awareness, Zschimmer & Schwarz optimises and provides its expertise and knowledge in water-based polymers to customers, meeting the highest standards of quality and cost-effectiveness produced in factories in Europe, North America and Asia. The product portfolio includes state-of-the-art polymer technologies such as self-crosslinking polymers that fully cure at room temperature without any storage stability limitations. Additionally, cationic and highly charged soluble resins for improvements in wetting, dispersion or adhesion are also included in the product portfolio. In addition to these technologies, polymer product development work for water-based applications continues with a focus on modern, innovative concepts.

Dr. Fabian Gyger Global Product Manager Zschimmer & Schwarz Paints & Coatings Division

Erkan Yılmaz Regional Sales Manager Turkey, Middle East and North Africa Zschimmer & Schwarz Paints & Coatings Division

Dr. Yasemin İlhan Sales and Marketing Manager Reaksiyon Kimya A.Ş.