High-throughput screening of barrier and adhesive behavior of polymeric coatings

A combinatorial factory for the preparation and screening of polymeric coatings was developed. Coating formulations were prepared and coated using novel combinatorial techniques to obtain libraries of varying composition and thickness. The thickness of each film in a combinatorial array is rapidly determined via visible-light absorbance of optical dyes in conjunction with the Beer-Lamberi relationship. These combinatorial libraries were then tested and screened using a variety of custom-made high-throughput methods. Combinatorial screening of oxygen and moisture vapor transmission rate, along with adhesive properties, are shown here. OTR and MVTR are determined using spectroscopic techniques. For adhesion, a spherical probe adhesive tester is able to generate parameter. p linked to tack, peel, and shear in one measurement. In addition to describing the testing methodology, linked to tack, peel, and shear in one measurement. In addition to describing the testing methodology, benefits and shortcomings of these techniques will be highlighted.