Polymerisation Reactions

The primary reactions used in the manufacture of solvent based resins

Resins designed as binders for solvent based coatings are generally made by two distinct reactive processes:

A Condensation reaction is one where an acid reacts with a base. This is akin to the inorganic acid/base reactions one studies at school but rather than inorganic chemicals, such as Hydrochloric acid/Sodium Hydroxide, the reaction is between organic molecules, for example between acetic acid and ethanol. The reactions between organic acids and bases are endothermic (requires heat to initiate) and temperatures in the range of 100°C to 260°C are used to ensure the reaction proceeds at an acceptable rate. Like the standard acid/base reaction, the reactions between organic molecules produce water as a by-product, which is why this type of reaction is called a 'condensation' reaction.

An Addition reaction is one where two molecules are joined together to form a larger molecule consisting of all the atoms of the two reacting molecules. In other words, there are no by-products formed during the reaction, hence the term 'addition' for the reaction. These reactions are generally exothermic, in that the ingredients generate heat when reacting, and most often the reaction requires cooling.

For additional information on reactions please refer to the individual reaction types listed under the Reactions tab.