Non-isocyanate crosslinking approach for poly(vinylidene fluoride) topcoats

 
Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) resin is highly inert and difficult to functionalize for crosslinking, but most commercial PVDF-based coatings use the PVDF resin in combination with other compatible resins, such as acrylics, allowing for the possibility of some degree of crosslinking in the polymer alloy binder. We will present results from new investigations looking at several non-isocyanate (NISO) routes to achieve crosslinked PVDF-based coatings. These include both external non-isocyanate crosslinkers, and also a radiation-curing approach. Both approaches are effective ways to boost solvent and dirt pickup resistance, compared to purely thermoplastic systems. At the same time, crosslinked systems of this type tend to maintain good flexibility, and exhibit excellent weatherability like the thermoplastic systems.