Researchers found that the branching of polymer chains significantly enhances the adhesive properties of pressure-sensitive adhesives.

The molecular weight distributions and branched chain topology were regulated by using 2-ethylhexyl thiogly colate as a chain-transfer agent. The monomers and chain-transfer agent were selected as these were already available as bio-based feedstocks, or had a realistic potential to become available from non-petrochemical resources. Adhesive films cast from the polymer dispersions demonstrated good peel, shear strength and tack adhesion energies. This is attributed to polymer chain branching, which unlocks a broader window for the design rules for pressure-sensitive adhesives. Detailed rheological studies of the viscoelastic materials were conducted to support the adhesive test results.

Source: Polymer Chemistry, Issue 28, 2024