Water-based dispersions of highly-branched polymers

摘要

The present invention provides aqueous dispersions of highly-branched polymers for coating applications and methods for making the polymers. The polymers may have high molecular weights and desirably take the form of microgels. The polymers and dispersions may be formulated with functionalities, viscosities, and solids contents that make them well-suited for use in a variety of coatings including, but not limited to, 2-pack coatings, ultraviolet (UV) curable coatings, inks, and air-dry coatings.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
reacting an acid-functional acrylic resin or styrene-acrylic resin dispersed in water with a polyepoxy-functional resin having at least two epoxy groups to produce a first highly-branched polymer; and subsequently reacting the first highly-branched polymer with a monoepoxy-functional resin to yeild an aqueous dispersion of a second highly-branched and further functionalized polymer; wherein:
the acid-functionacid-functional acrylic resin or styrene-acrylic resin has an acid value sufficient to allow for increased branching of the resin.