Synthesis of butyl acrylate–styrene–TMI latexes and their application as water-based coatings

Abstract: Self-crosslinking styrene-acrylic latexes functionalized with 3-isopropenyl-α,α-dimethyl benzyl isocyanate (TMI) by semibatch emulsion polymerization were prepared. Polymerizations were performed in emulsions with aerosol EF-800 surfactant; remarkable colloidal stability of the copolymer latexes was measured in fresh and aged samples. The effects on film formation, tensile properties, permeability to water vapor, and oxygen were evaluated by varying the TMI concentrations (from 0 to 6 wt%). The obtained latexes were used as binder to prepare water-based coatings, which were applied on steel specimens; hydrolysis of TMI acts as a self-crosslinked promoter once the film was applied. Adhesion tests, scratch hardness, and gloss properties were evaluated. Graphic abstract: Water vapor permeability of latex films[Figure not available: see fulltext.]