WAALWIJK, the Netherlands - Ad Overbeek, Global Science Manager at DSM NeoResins+, has delivered the 2009 Joseph J. Mattiello Memorial Lecture.

 

The lecture formed the focal point of the CoatingsTech Conference, held in Indianapolis, IN, from April 27-29, 2009. It recognizes individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the field of coatings science and technology.

 

Overbeek’s paper was entitled, “Polymer Heterogeneity in Waterborne Coatings” and presented a new insight into the effect of heterogeneity on paint properties.

 

Overbeek’s treatise demonstrated how hybrids yield better properties than blends. It showed, for example, how optimal coatings properties can be obtained by combining alkyd parts with waterborne acrylic polymers, through the copolymerization of urethanes and acrylics into core-shell particles, or by making polyester-modified acrylics.

 

The paper reflected how heterogeneous hybrid paint systems enable the design of coating products with end properties that perform as well as traditional solvent-based systems and are easy to use. Overbeek also hinted that difficulties with adhesion to untreated polypropylene can be solved. He also described amphiphilic polymers that have similar leveling properties as SB alkyds, making it possible to obtain high-gloss waterborne coatings.