UV-curable PUDs based on sustainable acrylated polyol: Study of their hydrophobic and oleophobic properties

UV-curable polyurethane dispersions (UV-PUDs) are fast expanding commercial applications since they combine benefits of both water-borne as well as UV-curing technologies while addressing many technical, environmental and performance benefits. Varying the compositions and cross-link density of UV-PUD polymeric chain backbone can control the film properties of UV-PUDs. There are many design restrictions posed by availability of commercial materials. In the present research work we demonstrate synthesis and application of a multi-functional acrylate polyol derived from soybean oil, as soft-segment of UV-PUDs. A series of UV-PUDs have been designed for high performance coatings that are specifically hydrophobic and oil-resistant. To this end, UV-PUDs based on acrylated soy-polyol have been further modified by siloxane and perfluoro compounds and their films with varying cross-link density have been investigated. The UVPUD films were characterized for their film properties, particle size, contact angle and solvent swelling ratio. The outcome of this study provides useful insights into design considerations for hydrophobic and oil-resistant UV-curable coatings. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.