Urethane/acrylic composite polymer emulsions

Blends of waterborne urethane and acrylic polymer systems were studied to obtain a composite emulsion that would have all of the advantages of the two polymers without their associated disadvantages. An approach to achieve extensive polymer-polymer interactions through crosslinking reactions was studied to optimize the positive aspects of each polymer. The crosslink system used an acrylic polymer emulsion containing keto or aldo groups and a polyurethane dispersion incorporating a hydrazine group. The degree of crosslinking was determined by FT-IR. Single package, ambient temperature crosslinking emulsions were obtained by using this system. In addition to the excellent properties these two polymers normally possess, the crosslinked blends exhibit synergistic effects in film properties, such as good solvent resistance and low heat sensitivity over a wide range. Composite polymers of this type could be useful in applications where high durability is required: tennis court coatings, floor coatings, laminating adhesives, and paper and textile finishes.