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Novel synthetic approach resulting in various resins and coating compositions in which vanillin significantly increased impact, hardness, and solvent resistance.
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VANILLIN: A BIOBASED CROSSLINKER FOR MELAMINE-FORMALDEHYDE COATINGS Invention Summary In an effort to improve environmental bio-compatibility, bio-based materials have been explored as alternatives to petrochemical-based composites. Specifically, there is currently an unmet need in the field for bio-based aromatic compounds. Lignin is the most abundant aromatic biopolymer with excellent thermal and mechanical properties. One of its degradation products, vanillin, is considered a waste product in pulp and paper industries making it cost-effective as a building block for polymers. Webster et al have crosslinked the phenolic group on vanillin with melamine-formaldehyde (MF) resins which have numerous applications such as laminate flooring, cabinetry, surface coatings, textile finishes, and paper processing. They developed a novel synthetic approach resulting in various resins and coating compositions in which vanillin significantly increased impact, hardness, and solvent resistance. Benefits Abundant polymer that is readily available Vanillin is already produced on a commercial scale Cost-effective Decreased environmental impact Applications in baking enamels for metal substrates such as container coatings, coil coatings, furniture, and fixtures Technology The technology includes resins and coating compositions of vanillin incorporated melamine-formaldehyde resin that can include the use of solvents and coating additives. Patents This technology is patent pending with fully preserved PCT patent rights and is available for licensing/partnering opportunities.