Biobased step-growth polymers in powder coating applications

Co- and terpolyesters based on 1,4:3,6-dianhydro-d-glucitol (isosorbide), 1,4:3,6-dianhydro-l-iditol (isoidide) and succinic acid were evaluated for their applicability in solvent-cast and powder coatings. These biobased polyesters have functionalities and Tg values in the appropriate range for such applications and were cross-linked using conventional curing agents. Introduction of poly-functional monomers such as glycerol and citric acid led to coatings with enhanced performance with respect to mechanical and chemical resistance, compared to formulations based on linear polymers. The curing behavior of these systems was investigated with DSC and rheological experiments. Formulations containing citric acid-modified polyester resins showed rapid curing, probably facilitated by anhydride formation at the chain ends. Hydroxy- as well as carboxylic acid-functional 1,4:3,6-dianhydrohexitol-based polyesters proved to be suitable materials for coating applications with respect to solvent resistance, impact resistance and hardness, with performance comparable to commercially available systems. Accelerated weathering experiments showed that functional groups such as hydroxyl groups, carboxylic acids, anhydrides and peroxides are formed during UV-exposure. The weathered coatings have reduced impact stability. On the other hand, the appearance of the coatings does not change significantly. Isosorbide-based coating systems appear to have similar weathering resistance as conventional terephthalic acid-based poly(ester urethane) coatings.