Use of high throughput screening methods to study dual-functional crosslinkable latexes

Abstract

Structure-formulation-property relationships for crosslinkable core-shell latexes were studied initially using high throughput screening methods and then using conventional experimental methods to determine optimum coating formulations. Two approaches that are used within coatings technology to improve sustainability are reduction in volatile organic compounds (VOC) and reduction in energy needed to cure coatings. Hybrid crosslinkable core-shell latexes have shown potential in meeting these challenges where film properties provided by particle coalescence are not sufficient and chemical crosslinking is needed. However, with numerous parameters involved such as latex particle architecture, nature and amount of crosslinker, and curing conditions, the screening of formulations via conventional coating testing methods becomes laborious and time-consuming. The results from high-throughput dye extraction and puncture testing were compared to data from conventional testing methods such as chemical resistance (MEK double rubs), pendulum hardness, and tensile testing to identify correlations. The dye extraction results have shown a strong correlation to solvent resistance and pendulum hardness data whereas toughness from puncture testing data correlated to tensile testing. Both high throughput dye extraction and puncture testing methods can be used for the accelerated screening of crosslinkable coating formulations to optimize curing parameters to achieve the best coating performance.