The course identifies the different markets for coatings and reviews the advantages and disadvantages of competing technologies relative to waterborne options. Case histories will be used to illustrate how the penetration into different markets is influenced by the current property mix, and what might be expected from technical developments and the influence of legislation.

Major types of waterborne technology will be covered including waterborne dispersions ('latexes'), solutions and emulsions. Attention will be paid to mechanisms of film formation and the likely impact of film morphology on mechanical and optical properties. Formulation will be addressed with particular reference to the differences from classical solvent borne solution binders. An outline of processing and application issues will also be covered.