A newly developed crosslinked waterborne polyurethane coating shows impressive abrasion resistance, offering significant improvements in mechanical properties and wear resistance. The dual crosslinking structure plays a key role in these advancements.

Crosslinked waterborne polyurethane coatings improve wear resistance and mechanical properties, providing enhanced protection for various surfaces. Source: Adobe.Stock

A research team has developed a novel crosslinked waterborne polyurethane (CWPU) coating, which significantly enhances abrasion resistance. The key to this improvement lies in the synthesis of a crosslinker, 6,6¡ä-(1,4-butanediyl)-bis-(1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine) (BBTDA), which forms both covalent and hydrogen bonding crosslinking networks. This dual crosslinking structure results in a marked increase in mechanical properties and wear resistance of the coating.

In the study, various concentrations of BBTDA were tested to assess their effects on the CWPU¡¯s mechanical properties, water resistance, thermal stability, and abrasion performance. The results showed that the optimal concentration of 0.5 % BBTDA greatly enhanced the tensile strength (26 MPa), reduced water absorption (4.7 %), increased hardness (4H), and lowered the abrasion value to only 0.4 mg. These findings highlight the potential of the CWPU-0.5 coating as a highly effective solution for applications requiring superior abrasion resistance.

Synergistic effects of dual crosslinking networks

The dual crosslinking network created by the inclusion of BBTDA in the CWPU formulation is central to the improvements observed. The combination of covalent and hydrogen bonding crosslinking mechanisms works synergistically to enhance both the mechanical and wear-resistant properties of the coating. This approach shows promising potential for use in industries where durability and long-lasting performance of coatings are critical, such as automotive, construction, and industrial applications.

The research indicates that CWPU coatings, particularly those formulated with 0.5 % BBTDA, represent a significant advancement in the development of abrasion-resistant, waterborne polyurethane coatings. With reduced environmental impact compared to solvent-based alternatives, these coatings could offer a more sustainable and efficient solution for various coating needs.

Source: Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 190, May 2024,

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