Toward biocide-free water-borne coatings at traditional pH via innovative binders and additives

 
The main biocides used to preserve waterborne coatings belong to the isothiazolinone family. However, this class of chemicals is under investigation by regulatory and eco-label agencies for their rising sensitization rate. With more stringent regulations on biocides in consumer products and rising concerns on sensitizing biocides like MIT, it is urgent that coatings manufacturers invest in products that reduce sensitizers use. Many of the available sensitizer label-free solutions are based on high pH inorganic silicate systems, which limit the end-use application. Dow is exploring a variety of chemical approaches to eliminate sensitizing biocides for in-can preservation in traditional paint pH ranges of 7-9.5. These binders and additives would offer our customers innovative solutions to help them meet the new regulations, and are applicator and consumer friendly. We will discuss promising initial research efforts in both binders and additives for use in sensitizer label-free and biocide-free* formulations. *manufactured without biocides