Hydrophobic acrylic hard coating by surface segregation of hyper-branched polymers

Abstract

The ability of hyperbranched polymers (HBPs) to preferentially segregate to the surface of its matrix owing to its unique structure makes it a good candidate as a surface modifier. One particular challenge in its application as an efficient surface modifier, however, is its possible elimination from the surface due to the lack of attachments between a HBP (modifier) and its host material (polymer matrix). Here, we present a novel approach to efficiently prevent the removal of HBPs from the surface of its host material by directly reacting a HBP containing fluoroalkyl segments (F-HBP) to a multi-functional acrylate monomer prior to curing. We also have characterized surface structure and wettability of the acrylic hard coating material by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic and contact angle measurements, respectively. The results show that since F-HBP was segregated at the surface, the surface became hydrophobic and more stable. Thus, we claim that our approach results in the formation of a water-repellent acrylic hard coating material.