U.S. patent application number 10/266822 was filed with the patent office on 2004-04-08 for floor finish composition.
This patent application is currently assigned to 3M Innovative Properties Company. Invention is credited to Kolb, Brant U., Paiva, Adriana, Yarmey, Susan K..
Application Number | 20040068035 10/266822 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32042725 |
Filed Date | 2004-04-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040068035 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Paiva, Adriana ; et
al. |
April 8, 2004 |
FLOOR FINISH COMPOSITION
Abstract
One aspect of the present invention provides an aqueous surface
finish composition comprising a film-forming, reversibly
crosslinked, emulsion-based polymer composition, and a surface
modified inorganic particle material. The surface modified
inorganic particle material is dispersed within the emulsion-based
polymer composition, and enhances performance characteristics of a
resultant film including hardness, modulus, as well as scratch and
soil resistance. The floor finish composition is shelf stable and
is particularly well suited for application to floor surfaces, but
also to other substrate surfaces such as walls and bathroom
surfaces.
Inventors: |
Paiva, Adriana; (Woodbury,
MN) ; Kolb, Brant U.; (Afton, MN) ; Yarmey,
Susan K.; (Woodbury, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
PO BOX 33427
ST. PAUL
MN
55133-3427
US
|
Assignee: |
3M Innovative Properties
Company
|
Family ID: |
32042725 |
Appl. No.: |
10/266822 |
Filed: |
October 8, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
524/431 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09D 7/67 20180101; C08K
9/06 20130101; C09D 7/62 20180101; C09G 1/16 20130101; Y10T
428/31547 20150401; C09D 7/68 20180101; C09G 1/02 20130101; C09D
5/028 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
524/431 |
International
Class: |
C08K 003/18 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An aqueous surface finish composition comprising: a
film-forming, emulsion-based polymer composition that reversibly
crosslinks; and a surface modified inorganic particle material
dispersed within the emulsion-based polymer composition.
2. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the surface
modified inorganic particle material includes surface modified
inorganic nanoparticles.
3. The surface finish composition of claim 2, wherein the
nanoparticles have an average particle size of 5-150 nm.
4. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the surface
modified inorganic particle material comprises inorganic particles
surface modified by a coupling agent.
5. The surface finish composition of claim 4, wherein the inorganic
particles include particles selected from the group consisting of
silica, alumina, zirconia, vanadia, titania, ceria, iron oxide,
antimony oxide, and tin oxide, alumina/silica.
6. The surface finish composition of claim 4, wherein the coupling
agent is hydrophilic.
7. The surface finish composition of claim 4, wherein the coupling
agent is selected from the group consisting of organic acids,
organic bases, silane, and combinations thereof.
8. The surface finish composition of claim 4, wherein the inorganic
particles are silica and the coupling agent is a silane coupling
agent.
9. The surface finish composition of claim 8, wherein the silane
coupling agent is a polyethylene glycol-based silane coupling
agent.
10. The surface finish composition of claim 8, wherein the silane
coupling agent includes a component selected from the group
consisting of carboxylic acids, sulfonic acids, and phosphonic
acids.
11. The surface finish composition of claim 8, wherein the silane
coupling agent includes a component selected from the group
consisting of quaternary amines or protonated amines.
12. The surface finish composition of claim 8, wherein the coupling
agent is a carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt-based silane
coupling agent.
13. The surface finish composition of claim 8, wherein the coupling
agent is a 3-(3-trimethylsilylpropylthio)succinic anhydride-based
silane coupling agent.
14. The surface finish composition of claim 4, wherein the
inorganic particles have an outer surface at least partially
covered with the coupling agent, and further wherein the surface
modified inorganic particle material is characterized by a coupling
agent surface coverage of 5-100%.
15. The surface finish composition of claim 14, wherein the
coupling agent surface coverage is in the range of 20-50%.
16. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein a by weight
ratio of polymer composition solids to surface modified inorganic
particle material solids is in the range of 1:1-10:1.
17. The surface finish composition of claim 16, wherein the ratio
is in the range of 3:1-5:1.
18. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the
emulsion-based polymer composition includes an acrylic polymer.
19. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the
emulsion-based polymer composition includes an acrylic polymer and
a urethane polymer.
20. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the
emulsion-based polymer composition includes a hybrid acrylic
urethane polymer.
21. The surface finish composition of claim 20, wherein the
emulsion-based polymer composition includes the hybrid acrylic
urethane polymer mixed with an acrylic polymer.
22. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the aqueous
composition is characterized by an absence of surface modified
inorganic particle precipitation from the emulsion-based polymer
composition for at least seven days.
23. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the surface
is selected from the group consisting of a floor, a wall, and a
bathroom surface.
24. The surface finish composition of claim 1, wherein the surface
modified inorganic particle material includes silica nanoparticles
surface modified by an acid-based silane coupling agent.
25. A method of finishing a surface, the method comprising coating
the surface with the surface finishing composition according to
claim 1.
26. A process of improving the performance of an aqueous,
emulsion-based polymer floor finish composition that reversibly
crosslinks, the process comprising dispersing a surface modified
inorganic particle material within the emulsion.
27. The process of claim 26, wherein the surface modified inorganic
particle material comprises inorganic particle surface modified by
a coupling agent.
28. The process of claim 27, wherein the surface modified inorganic
particle material includes inorganic particles having an outer
surface partially covered with a coupling agent, and further
wherein the surface modified inorganic particle material is
characterized by a coupling agent surface coverage of 5-100%.
29. A method of preparing an aqueous surface finish composition,
the method comprising: providing a film-forming, emulsion-based
polymer composition that reversibly crosslinks; and dispersing a
surface modified inorganic particle material within the
emulsion-based polymer composition.
30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: preparing a surface
modified inorganic particle material for dispersing in the
emulsion-based polymer composition.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein preparing the surface modified
inorganic particle material includes surface modifying inorganic
particles with a coupling agent.
32. The method of claim 29, wherein the surface modified inorganic
particle material includes silica particles, the method further
comprising: storing the composition in a container for at least
seven days following the step of dispersing the surface modified
inorganic particle material, wherein the silica particles do not
precipitate out of the aqueous composition during the step of
storing.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a wet emulsion finish
composition useful for providing a coating or film to a substrate
surface such as a floor. More particularly, it relates to an
emulsion finish composition incorporating surface modified
inorganic particles providing enhanced shelf stability and film
performance, and methods of preparing the same.
[0002] Polymer compositions are used in the formulation of various
coating compositions such as floor finishes or polishes, for
example. Commercially available floor finish compositions typically
are aqueous emulsion-based polymer compositions comprising one or
more organic solvents, plasticizers, coating aides, anti-foaming
agents, polymer emulsions, metal complexing agents, waxes, and the
like. The polymer composition is applied to a floor surface and
then allowed to dry in air, normally at ambient temperature and
humidity. A film is formed that serves as a protective barrier
against soil deposited on the floor by pedestrian traffic, for
example. These same polymer compositions can be applied to other
substrate surfaces for which protection is desired, such as tile
floors, walls, furniture, windows, counter tops, and bathroom
surfaces, to name but a few.
[0003] Although many of the commercially available aqueous floor
finishes have performed well and have experienced at least some
commercial success, opportunities for improvement remain. In
particular, it is highly desirable that the resultant floor finish
film exhibits certain physical and performance characteristics
including hardness, scratch resistance, soil resistance, black
marks/scuff resistance, and abrasion resistance. Unfortunately, for
applications in which an enhanced floor finish film hardness or
resistance to deterioration is of great importance, currently
available aqueous floor finish compositions may be less than
satisfactory.
[0004] A primary factor in finish film hardness is the emulsion
polymer formulation. A metal complexing agent included in the floor
finish composition ionically bonds to the polymers when the
composition is dried, resulting in the protective film. This
reaction is reversible and the film is easily removed by a stripper
solution when desired. In this regard, most aqueous floor finish
polymer emulsions are polyacrylate-based. While other polymers
(e.g., styrene) substituted for, or combined with, the acrylic
polymer and/or additives such as coalescing agents or plasticizers
can affect the resultant film hardness, only marginal improvements
are typically achieved. Because resultant film hardness and
deterioration resistance are a function of the types of solids
within the formed film, a more viable approach may be to add hard,
inorganic particles to the emulsion polymer matrix. In theory,
these inorganic particles would increase the resulting film
hardness, making the finish harder and improving properties such as
scratch resistance and soil resistance. While promising, simply
adding these particles does not result in a commercially viable
product. In particular, the inorganic particles will not remain
dispersed in the wet polymer composition, but instead readily
precipitate (see Comparative Example 1 below).
[0005] Floor finish manufacturers continually strive to provide
improved hardness, abrasion resistance, and soil resistance
properties. To this end, the addition of inorganic, hard particles
appears promising. Unfortunately, current efforts have not produced
a shelf stable product. Thus, a need exists for a surface finish
composition exhibiting enhanced bulk properties via inorganic
nanoparticles that will not precipitate over extended periods of
time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides an aqueous
surface finish composition comprising a film-forming, reversibly
crosslinked, emulsion-based polymer composition, and a surface
modified inorganic particle material. The surface modified
inorganic particle material is dispersed within the polymer matrix,
and enhances performance characteristics of a film produced by the
composition following application to a surface, including hardness,
modulus, and scratch and soil resistance. The composition is
particularly well suited for application to floor surfaces, but
also to other substrate surfaces such as walls, counter tops,
furniture, windows, and bathroom surfaces.
[0007] Typically, the surface modified inorganic particle material
consists of particles surface modified by a coupling agent. In
general terms, the coupling agent stabilizes the inorganic
particles within the aqueous polymer composition, and renders the
inorganic particles compatible with the polymer composition once
dried. Preferably, the surface modified inorganic particle material
comprises silica nanoparticles surface modified by a silane
coupling agent. The ratio (by weight) of emulsion polymer
composition solids to surface modified inorganic particle material
solids is preferably in the range of 1:1-10:1, more preferably
3:1-5:1.
[0008] Polymers of the polymer composition are preferably acrylic
polymers, acrylic copolymers, styrene-acrylic copolymers, or blends
thereof. In one preferred embodiment, the polymer component is a
blend of an acrylic polymer and a urethane polymer, or
alternatively, acrylic urethane copolymers, with the urethane
enhancing the toughness of the resultant film. The finish
composition can also contain certain alkali soluble resins, waxes,
permanent and fugitive plasticizers, defoamers, wetting agents,
metal complexing agents and biocides.
[0009] Another aspect of the present invention provides a process
for improving the performance of an emulsion-based polymer surface
finish composition by dispersing a surface modified inorganic
particle material within the polymer matrix. Another aspect of the
present invention relates to a method of preparing the surface
finish composition of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0010] The present invention provides an aqueous surface finish
composition comprising a film-forming emulsion based polymer
composition and a surface modified inorganic particle material
dispersed within the polymer composition. The finish composition
can be applied to a variety of substrates such as, for example,
floor, wall, counter top, furniture, window, and bathroom surfaces.
Preferably, the substrate is a floor, but can be any surface upon
which the coatable compositions of the present invention can be
applied such as vinyl, ceramic, wood, marble, and the like. The
resultant coatings are smooth, exhibit increased hardness and
modulus, and are highly resistant to scratches and soil. The
inorganic particles provide for these performance enhancements,
with the surface modification thereof ensuring long-term shelf
stability of the finish composition.
[0011] Individual components of the emulsion-based polymer
composition are described in greater detail below. In general
terms, however, the polymer composition preferably includes an
acrylic polymer and a metal complexing agent suspended in water.
With this in mind, the inorganic particles are surface modified to
ensure long-term suspension within the polymer composition. In a
preferred embodiment, the surface modified inorganic particle
material consists of a plurality of ceramic-type particles modified
by a coupling agent. More preferably, the inorganic particles are
metal oxide particles in any oxidation state. Examples of preferred
metal oxides include silica, alumina, zirconia, vanadia, titania,
ceria, iron oxide, antimony oxide, tin oxide, alumina/silica and
combinations thereof, with silica being the most preferred.
Regardless of the exact material employed, the inorganic particles
are preferably nanoparticles having an average particle size
(diameter) of 5-150 nm. Nanoparticles maintain transparency of the
floor finish coating.
[0012] "Surface modification" of the inorganic particles is
characterized by the provision of a coupling agent that modifies at
least a portion of a surface of each particle. The term "surface
modified particle" refers to a particle that includes surface
groups attached to the surface of the particle. The surface groups
modify the character of the particle. By way of background, a
non-surface modified colloidal dispersion (such as inorganic
particles dispersed in an aqueous medium) typically relies upon
ionic stabilization to keep particles from aggregating within the
medium. With respect to aqueous floor finish polymer compositions,
inorganic particle ionic stabilization is difficult to achieve due
to the different pHs, ionic strengths, chemical additives,
cosolvents, and the like associated with these polymer
compositions. Thus, inorganic particles in an aqueous floor finish
polymer composition can readily aggregate with themselves and/or
with the polymer emulsion particles, resulting in particle
precipitation. The present invention overcomes this marked
stability concern via stearic stabilization or additional ionic
character provided by the coupling agent.
[0013] The coupling agent chain effectively has two ends, with the
first end adhering to the outer surface of each inorganic particle,
and the other end (or "tail") freely extending from the particle.
The term "adhering" includes, for example, covalent bonding,
hydrogen bonding, electrostatic attraction, London forces, and
hydrophobic interactions. The coupling agent may be chemisorbed or
physisorbed. The coupling agent may comprise organic acids, organic
bases, silanes and combinations thereof. The type of coupling agent
preferred will depend on the type of inorganic particle and the
chemistry of the floor finish composition. The coupling agent
preferably has a hydrophilic property, thus providing surface
modified particle stability in the aqueous polymer composition.
Further, the coupling agent is selected so as to not promote
particle aggregation or aggregation with the polymer emulsion
particles. Thus, the surface modified inorganic particle material
will not precipitate. Further, the tail of the coupling agent chain
can, depending upon formulation, interact with the polymer matrix
once dried, providing a compatibilizing and/or ionic bonding
effect. Similarly, with certain preferred coupling agents (for
example ionically charged silane coupling agents), the tail may
allow the surface modified inorganic particle material to bond to
the dried polymer composition. In either case, the surface modified
inorganic particle material is more compatible with the polymer
composition, providing enhanced film performance.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment utilizing silica particles (more
preferably silica nanoparticles), the coupling agent is a silane
coupling agent. Silane coupling agents are bifunctional
organosilanes, and a number of acceptable silane coupling agents
are available. Acceptable silane coupling agent tails are
preferably hydrophilic and may be nonionic or ionic. Nonionic
silanes may include those having alcohol, amine, urea, or polyether
functionality.
[0015] Acceptable nonionic coupling agents can provide the dried
polymer matrix compatibility described above and include, for
example, methoxyethoxyethoxyethoxyureidopropyltriethoxysilane
(CH.sub.3CH.sub.2O).sub.3Si(CH.sub.2).sub.3NHC(O)OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2OCH.sub-
.2CH.sub.2OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2OCH.sub.3,
1-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]urea, and other polyethylene glycol
based silanes. Preferred silanes are those with polyethylene glycol
tails, represented by the following structure:
X.sub.mSi--(Y--OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2(OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2).sub.nOR).sub.4-m
[0016] where X is a hydrolysable moity such as alkoxy, acyloxy or
halogen; m is 1-3; Y is a bifunctional organic radical; n is 1-100;
and R is an organic radical that does not impart hydrophobic
character.
[0017] In a more preferred embodiment, ionic silane coupling agents
are employed with either anionic or cationic functional groups.
Anionic functional group types may include the salts of carboxylic
acids, sulfonic acids, and phosphoric acids. Cationic types may
include quaternary amines and protonated amines. The silane may
contain one or more ionic groups per molecule. Silanes containing
carboxylic acid salts are particularly advantageous for silica
particle surface modification. These include
carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt, as well as the salts of other
acid-based silane coupling agents such as
4-carboxybutyltriethoxysilane
(CH.sub.3CH.sub.2O).sub.3Si(CH.sub.2).sub.4- CO.sub.2H,
10-carboxydecyltriethoxysilane (CH.sub.3CH.sub.2O).sub.3Si(CH.s-
ub.2).sub.10CO.sub.2H, etc. Similarly, a variety of diacid-based
silane coupling agents are available, with the hydrolysis product
of 3-(3-trimethysilylpropylthio)succinic anhydride, aqueous ammonia
providing one acceptable formulation.
[0018] The surface modified inorganic particle material is
preferably characterized by the coupling agent covering 5-100
percent of the surface area of each inorganic particle; more
preferably 15-100 percent; most preferably 20-50 percent. In this
regard, 100 percent surface area coverage best promotes composition
stability; however from a cost standpoint, a lesser surface area
coverage is preferably employed, yet still provides highly
acceptable results.
[0019] The surface modification can be accomplished by any suitable
means. The coupling agents are added to the suspension and allowed
time to adhere to the inorganic particle surfaces. The time can
range from minutes to many hours. In the case of silane coupling
agents, suitable catalysis and elevated temperature may be required
to complete the surface modification. In the case of ionic coupling
agents, additional base may be added to neutralize the free acid or
facilitate other reactions such as hydrolysis of anhydride
functionality.
[0020] With the above-described surface modified inorganic particle
material constraints in mind, and as previously described, the
film-forming emulsion-based polymer composition can assume a wide
variety of forms. In this regard, the polymer composition
incorporates polymer(s) that are typically acrylic polymers,
acrylic copolymers, styrene-acrylic copolymers, or blends thereof.
Acrylic polymers contain only one type of acrylate monomer, whereas
the acrylic copolymers comprise two or more different types of
acrylate monomers. Styrene-acrylic copolymers comprise at least one
type of styrene monomer and one type of acrylate monomer. The
acrylate monomers include acrylic acid, butyl acrylate, ethyl
acrylate, methyl acrylate, 2-ethyl hexyl acrylate, acrylonitrile,
acrylimide, methacrylic acid, methyl methacrylate, ethyl
methacrylate, butyl methacrylate, methacrylamide, and the like.
Styrene monomers include styrene, alpha-methyl styrene, and the
like.
[0021] Commercially available acrylic copolymers suitable for
finishing compositions include, but are not limited to, methyl
methacrylate/butyl acrylate/methacrylic acid (MMA/BA/MAA)
copolymers, methyl methacrylate/butyl acrylate/acrylic acid
(MMA/BA/AA) copolymers, and the like.
[0022] Suitable commercially available styrene-acrylic copolymers
include, but are not limited to, styrene/methyl methacrylate/butyl
acrylate/methacrylic acid (S/MMA/BA/MMA) copolymers, styrene/methyl
methacrylate/butyl acrylate/acrylic acid (S/MMA/BA/AA) copolymers,
and the like.
[0023] Commercially available acrylic polymers suitable for floor
finish composition include, for example, Morglo II Latex from
Omnova Solutions, Inc., of Chester S.C.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the film-forming polymer matrix
incorporates accepted acrylic chemistry in combination with
polyurethane. Polyurethanes and polyacrylates can be used together
to achieve coatings that are both harder and tougher. In one more
preferred embodiment, the film-forming polymer matrix includes a
hybrid copolymer consisting of urethane and acrylic polymer chains.
In an even more preferred embodiment, the acrylic urethane hybrid
polymer is added to commercially available acrylic-based surface
finish compositions.
[0025] The finish composition typically contains between about 5
and 50 weight percent and preferably between about 10 and 35 weight
percent emulsion-based polymers based on the weight of the finish
composition. Further, a weight ratio of emulsion polymer
composition solids to surface modified inorganic particle material
solids is preferably in the range of 1:1-10:1; more preferably
3:1-5:1.
[0026] The surface finish compositions can also contain other
components such as polyvalent metal compounds, alkali soluble
resins, waxes, permanent and fugitive plasticizers, defoamers,
wetting agents, and biocides. The polyvalent metal compound
provides crosslinking of the polymers in the film and increases the
detergent resistance of the finish. Plasticizers or coalescing
agents can be added to lower the temperature of film formation.
Alkali soluble resins improve the ability of the finish to be
stripped from the substrate before reapplication of a fresh
coating. Waxes improve the gloss of the finish and allow the finish
to be buffed. Biocides help minimize the formation of molds or
mildew in the coating. Antifoamers and defoamers minimize the
formation of bubbles in the coating.
[0027] Suitable polyvalent metals include beryllium, cadmium,
copper, calcium, magnesium, zinc, zirconium, barium, strontium,
aluminum, bismuth, antimony, lead, cobalt, iron, nickel, and the
like. Although the polyvalent metal compound can be added to the
finish composition in dry form such as powder, it is preferably
added as a solution. The polyvalent metal compound is typically a
metal complex, a metal salt of an organic acid, or a metal chelate.
The ammonia and amine complexes of these metals are particularly
useful because of their high solubility. Amines capable of
complexing many metals include, for example, monoethanol amine,
diethylaminoethanol, and ethylenediamine. Polyvalent metal
complexes and salts of organic acids are typically soluble in an
alkaline pH range. Anions of organic acids include acetate,
formate, carbonate, glycolate, octanoate, benzoate, bluconate,
oxalate, lactate, and the like. Polyvalent metal chelates where the
ligand is a bidentate amino acid such as glycine or alanine can
also be used.
[0028] Zinc and cadmium are preferred polyvalent metal ions.
Preferred polyvalent metal compounds include zinc acetate, cadmium
acetate, zinc glycinate, cadmium glycinate, zinc carbonate, cadmium
carbonate, zinc benzoate, zinc salicylate, zinc glycolate, and
cadmium glycolate. In some applications, a fugitive ligand such as
ammonia is preferred. A ligand is considered fugitive if at least a
portion of the ligand tends to volatilize as the finish dries to
form a film on the substrate.
[0029] The alkali-soluble resins include copolymers of styrene or
vinyl toluene with at least one .alpha.-.beta.-monoethylenically
unsaturated acid or anhydride such as styrene-maleic anhydride
resins, rosin/maleic anhydride adducts which are condensed with
polyols, and the like. The alkali-soluble resins typically have a
weight average molecular weight from about 500 to 10,000 and
preferably from about 1000 to 5000. The resins are often used as a
conventional resin cut, which is an aqueous solution of the resin
with an alkaline substance having a fugitive cation such as
ammonium hydroxide. The alkali soluble resin is typically employed
in amounts from 0 to about 20 weight percent and preferably in
amounts from 0 to about 15 weight percent based on the weight of
the finish composition.
[0030] The waxes or mixtures of waxes that can be used include
waxes of a vegetable, animal, synthetic, and/or mineral origin.
Representative waxes include, for example, camuba, candelilla,
lanolin, stearin, beeswax, oxidized polyethylene wax, polyethylene
emulsions, polypropylene, copolymers of ethylene and acrylic
esters, hydrogenerated coconut oil or soybean oil, and the mineral
waxes such as paraffin or ceresin. The waxes typically range from 0
to about 15 weight percent and preferably from about 2 to about 10
weight percent based on the weight of the finish composition.
[0031] The aqueous finishing composition typically contains from
about 1 to about 10 weight percent plasticizer based on the weight
of the finish composition. The plasticizer facilitates film
formation at ambient temperatures when the coating is applied to a
substrate. A fugitive or semi-fugitive plasticizer is preferred
over a permanent plasticizer for many applications. A fugitive or
semi-fugitive plasticizer is a plasticizer that at least partially
evaporates as the coating dries. Permanent plasticizers do not
evaporate. Mixtures of fugitive and permanent plasticizers can be
used. The particular plasticizer and the amount used are chosen in
accordance with the demand for compatibility with the formulation,
efficiency in lowering the film-forming temperature, and clarity of
the coating.
[0032] Fugitive plasticizers or coalescents include, for example,
the monobutyl, monoethyl, monomethyl or other monoalkyl ethers of
diethylene glycol or diproplyleneglycol, isophorone, benzyl
alcohol, butyl cellosolve, and 3-methoxybutanol-1. Permanent
plasticizers include, for example, benzyl butyl phthalate, dibutyl
phthalate, dimethyl phthalate, triphenyl phosphate, 2-ethyl hexyl
benzylphthalate, fatty oil acid esters of caprolactam, acetyl
tributyl citrate, toluene ethyl sulfonamide, tributoxyethyl
phosphate, and tributyl phosphate.
[0033] The finish compositions of the invention typically have a
solids content from about 10 to about 50 weight percent. In one
embodiment, the solids range from about 10 to about 30 weight
percent and preferably from about 15 to about 25 weight percent
based on the weight of the finish composition. In another
embodiment of the invention, a concentrated finish composition is
provided containing up to about 35 to about 50 weight percent
solids based on the weight of the finish composition. Such
concentrated compositions are diluted prior to use by either mixing
the concentrate with water or by applying the finish with a wet mop
or applicator.
[0034] The pH of the finish composition is typically in the range
of about 6 to about 10.5. Preferably, the pH is between about 7.5
and about 9.9. The pH can be adjusted using various bases or
buffering agents. Suitable bases or buffering agents include, for
example, borax, sodium hydroxide, alkali phosphates, alkali
silicates, alkali carbonates, ammonia, and amines such as
diethanolamine or triethanolamine.
[0035] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for
applying the finish compositions of this invention. The finish can
be applied to a variety of substrates including floor, wall,
furniture, window, counter top and bathroom surfaces. The
substrates can be fibers, metal, plastic, wood, stone, brick,
glass, cement, concrete, ceramic masonite, dry wall, plaster,
plastic, and the like. Bathroom surfaces can be countertops, shower
stalls, toilets, and urinals. In one preferred embodiment, the
substrate is a floor surface. The floor surface can be wood,
composite vinyl tile, vinyl linoleum, asphalt, asbestos, concrete,
ceramic, and the like.
[0036] The following examples and comparative examples further
describe the finish compositions of the invention, methods of using
the finish compositions, and the tests performed to determine the
various characteristics of the finish composition. The examples are
provided for exemplary purposes to facilitate an understanding of
the invention, and should not be construed to limit the invention
to the examples.
EXAMPLES
[0037] Glossary
[0038] Nalco 2327.TM.--Aqueous colloidal silica sol having an
average particle size of 20 nm, available from Ondeo Nalco Chemical
Company of Napperville, Ill.
[0039] Nalco 2329.TM.--Aqueous colloidal silica sol having an
average particle size of 75 nm, available from Ondeo Nalco Chemical
Company of Napperville, Ill.
[0040] Silquest A1230.TM.--Nonionic silane coupling agent,
available from OSi Specialties of Greenwich, CT.
[0041] Hybridur.RTM. 580--Acrylic urethane hybrid polymer,
available from Air Products of Allentown, Pa.
[0042] 3M Spangle.TM. Floor Finish--Floor finish composition,
available from 3M Company of Saint Paul, Minn.
[0043] Carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt--Ionic silane coupling
agent, available from Gelest Inc. of Tullytown, Pa.
[0044] 3-(Triethoxysilyl)propionitrile--Precursor to ionic silane
coupling agent, available from Aldrich Chemical Company of
Milwaukee, Wis.
[0045] Test Methods
[0046] Spiral Scratch Test--A spiral scratch method was developed
using a microtribometer (available from CETR, Inc. of Campbell,
Calif.). In this test, a Tungsten Carbide ball {fraction (1/16)}"
in diameter was used as an indenter. The sample was rotated at 400
rpm and the force was set at a range from 150 to 400 mN. Samples
were examined to determine if they were scratched at each of the
forces tested. The rating scale was from 0 (badly scratched) to 5
(unscratched, no change in appearance).
[0047] Nanoindentation--Elastic modulus (E) and Hardness (H) of the
compositions were determined via nanoindentation using an XP
Nanoindenter available from MTS of Oak Ridge, TN. For all
experiments a diamond Berkovich probe was used. The probe was
indented into the sample to 1000 nm. The variation of the modulus
or hardness (if any) was obtained as a function of displacement
into the sample (depth). The reported results in GigaPascals (GPa)
were taken at a depth of 600 nm.
[0048] Soil Resistance--In the soiling test, new Armstrong white
vinyl composite tiles from St. Paul Linoleum, St. Paul, Minn. were
stripped using a 3M Super Polish (White) Floor Pad with 3M Low Odor
Stripper (22H) diluted using Twist and Fill.TM. applicator--3M, St.
Paul, Minn. A 1 ft.sup.2 stripped tile section was divided in
thirds. Spangle.TM. control and two experimental finishes were
applied to the same tile (1.3 mLs of each polish was used). In
particular, four coats of finish were applied and each coat was
allowed to dry for at least 30 minutes. The tile was not tested
until at least 24 hrs had passed. A Gardner Straight Line
Washability and Abrasion Machine (Byk Gardner--Silver Spring, MD)
was used. A loop nylon kitchen style carpet was attached to the
roller and 2 grams CSMA soil (Rohm & Haas, Philadelphia, Pa.)
were placed on the carpet. After 25 cycles, the soil was removed
and the machine was run for another 175 cycles. A visual rating was
given in terms of soiling of the finish. The rating scale went from
1 to 5 with 5 being best. The control finish (Spangle.TM.) was
always given a rating of 4. The data reported in the tables below
represent the results of the sample finish composition rating minus
the control rating. A negative number means that the surface
modified inorganic particle material finish had poorer performance
than the control.
[0049] Black Mark/Scuff Resistance--Black mark and scuff resistance
were determined following the procedure described in Chemical
Specialty Manufacturers Association Bulletin No. 9-73, except using
vinyl composite tiles. A visual rating was given in the range from
1 to 5 with 5 being best. The control finish (Spangle.TM.) was
always given a rating of 3. The data reported in the tables below
represent the results of the sample finish composition rating minus
the control rating. A negative number means that the surface
modified inorganic particle material finish had poorer performance
than the control.
[0050] Taber Abrasion Resistance--A 4".times.4" square sample of
coated material was prepared by using a 10 mils gap coating knife
on a transparent sheet. Taber abrasion was done using a Taber
Abraser model 5130 from Taber Industries of Tonawanda, N.Y., fitted
with a vacuum attachment and one CS--I OF wheel, 250 grams weight
and a counterweight of 125 grams. Haze was measured initially and
then at 100 and 300 cycles. The change of haze reported is the
difference from the initial haze value. Two samples of each
formulation were tested and three haze determinations per sample
were taken.
Comparative Example 1
Non-Surface Modified Inorganic Particles
[0051] Samples were prepared using non-surface modified silica
particles, including 20 nm silica particles (Nalco 2327.TM.) and 75
nm silica particles (Nalco 2329.TM.) added to a traditional floor
finish (Spangle.TM.) at ratios of 21:1, 15.3:1, 12.1:1, and 10:1
polymer composition solids to silica nanoparticles solids (by
weight). With each of the 20 nm silica samples, the silica
nanoparticles precipitated after thirty minutes. Similarly, the 75
nm silica samples each precipitated after approximately one day.
With all samples, the rapid precipitation prevented coating of the
composition to a substrate and thus evaluation of a resultant
film.
Example 1
Coupling Agent Surface Area Coverage on Particle
[0052] The following surface modified inorganic particle material
samples with different surface coverages were added to a
traditional floor finish (Spangle.TM.) at ratios of 2:1, 4:1, 8:1
Spangle.TM. solids to surface modified inorganic particle material
solids. Samples were prepared using 20 nm silica particles (Nalco
2327.TM.) and 75 nm silica particles (Nalco 2329.TM.), with
coupling agent surface area coverages of 5 percent, 10 percent, and
15 percent. The fractional surface coverage was based on typical
monolayer coverage for each particle size.
[0053] For 5 percent coverage of 20 nm silica particles, 199.97
grams of Nalco 2327.TM. were charged to a 16-oz. jar. 1.26 grams of
Silquest A1230 and 200.55 grams D.I. water were mixed and added to
the Nalco 2327.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to
80.degree. C. for 16 hours. For 10 percent coverage, 200.29 grams
of Nalco 2327 were charged to a 16-oz. jar. 2.52 grams of Silquest
A1230 and 200.28 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added to the
Nalco 2327 with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to
80.degree. C. for 16 hours. For 15 percent coverage, 200.27 grams
of Nalco 2327.TM. were charged to a 16-oz. jar. 3.78 grams of
Silquest A1230 and 203 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added to
the Nalco 2327.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to
80.degree. C. for 16 hours.
[0054] For 5 percent coverage of 75 m silica particles, 200.39
grams of Nalco 2329.TM. were changed to a 16-oz. jar. 0.3 grams of
Silquest A1230.TM. and 201.34 grams of D.I. water were mixed and
added to the Nalco 2329.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and
heated to 80.degree. C. for 16 hours. For 10 percent coverage,
199.63 grams of Nalco 2329.TM. were charged to a 16-oz. jar. 0.63
grams of Silquest A1230 and 201.78 grams of D.I. water were mixed
and added to the Nalco 2329 with stirring. The jar was sealed and
heated to 80.degree. C. for 16 hours. For 15 percent coverage,
200.82 grams of Nalco 2329.TM. were charged to a 16-oz. jar. 0.94
grams of Silquest A1230.TM. and 206.0 grams of D.I. water were
mixed and added to the Nalco 2329.TM. with stirring. The jar was
sealed and heated to 80.degree. C. for 16 hours.
[0055] Following formulation of each of the above surface modified
inorganic particle materials into 3M Spangle.TM., the compositions
were monitored for seven days for possible precipitation of the
silica nanoparticles. As shown in Table 1, the compositions
remained stable (i.e., the silica particles remained in suspension)
for the entire test period.
1TABLE 1 Stability at 2:1, 4:1, and 8:1 Spangle .TM. Size of silica
solids to inorganic particle material particles (nm) % Coverage
solids (by weight) 75 5 stable 75 10 stable 75 15 stable 20 5
stable 20 10 stable 20 15 stable
Example 2
Finish With a Non-ionic Surface Modified Inorganic Particle
Material
[0056] Emulsion-based floor finish sample compositions containing a
non-ionic-surface modified inorganic particle material were
formulated using two different size silica particles (20 nm and 75
nm). The organic used to surface modify these particles with 20
percent coverage was A1230. For the 20 nm samples, 399.75 grams of
Nalco 2327.TM. were charged to a 32-oz. jar. 10.24 grams of
Silquest A1230.TM. and 400 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added
to the Nalco 2327.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated
to 80.degree. C. for 16 hours. The modified sol was then dialyzed
using Spectra/Por 2 tubing (MWCO 12,000-14,000). Three tubes were
filled (515 g total) and dialyzed against D.I. water for 48 hours.
For the 75 nm samples, 400.33 grams of Nalco 2329.TM. were charged
to a 32-oz. jar. 2.47 grams of Silquest A1230.TM. and 400.0 grams
D.I. were mixed and added to the Nalco 2329.TM. with stirring. The
jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree. C. for 16 hours. The
surface modified inorganic particle material samples were then
formulated with a conventional floor finish (Spangle.TM.). In
particular, several compositions were made for each silica particle
size, including 8:1, 4:1, and 2:1 Spangle.TM. solids to surface
modified inorganic particle material solids (by weight). The
resulting compositions, along with a control finish (designated as
"Spangle.TM." in Table 2A) having no surface modified inorganic
particle material, were tested for scratch resistance
(microtribometer--spiral scratch and nanoindenter), black mark
resistance, and soil resistance.
[0057] For the spiral scratch test, a visual rating of 0 to 5 was
given, where 0 was poor and 5 was best. At 5, no scratching at that
load was observed. The results of the spiral scratch test are
reported in Table 2A. As shown, the surface modified inorganic
particle material significantly improved scratch resistance.
2 TABLE 2A Spangle .TM.: 20 Spangle .TM.: nm non-ionic sur- 75 nm
non-ionic face modified surface modified silica silica Spangle .TM.
8:1 4:1 2:1 8:1 4:1 2:1 Force mN Rating Rating Rating 150 0 5 5 5 5
5 5 200 0 5 5 5 5 5 5 250 0 4 5 5 4 5 5 300 0 4.5 5 5 5 5 5 350 0
4.5 5 5 5 5 5 400 0 4 4 5 5 5 4
[0058] The scratch resistance characteristics of the samples of
Example 2 were further evaluated by nanoindentation (to determine
modulus and hardness at a depth of 600 nm). The nanoindentation
results are provided in Table 2B. The elastic modulus increased
with the addition of surface modified silica particle material for
both 20 nm and 75 nm silica groupings. Hardness increased with the
addition of the surface modified 20 nm silica particle material,
while a slight change was observed with additional amounts of the
surface modified 75 nm silica particle material.
3TABLE 2B Sample Elastic Modulus (GPa) Hardness (GPa) Spangle .TM.
3.18 0.09 Spangle .TM.: 75 nm Surface modified Silica 8:1 3.29 0.08
4:1 3.77 0.09 2:1 4.69 0.09 Spangle .TM.: 20 nm Surface modified
Silica 8:1 3.31 0.08 4:1 4.14 0.10 2:1 4.80 0.11
[0059] The soil resistance test results are reported in Table 2C.
To reiterate, the control finish (Spangle.TM.) was always given a
rating of 4 and the data reported in Table 2C represents the
results of the sample finish composition rating minus the control
rating. The soil resistance improved with the addition of the
surface modified 20 nm silica particle material. For black
mark/scuff resistance, the control finish (Spangle.TM.) was always
given a rating of 3 and the data reported in Table 2C represents
the results of the sample finish composition rating minus the
control rating. The black mark/scuff resistance decreased
significantly in the surface modified 20 nm silica particle
material samples as the amount of surface modified silica
increased. A decrease occurred in the surface modified 75 nm silica
particle material samples as the amount of surface modified silica
was increased.
4TABLE 2C Spangle .TM.: Surface modified Silica Soil Resistance
Black Mark/Scuff Resistance Spangle .TM.: 20 nm Surface modified
Silica 2:1 1 -2 4:1 1 -1 8:1 1 -1 Spangle .TM.: 75 nm Surface
modified Silica 2:1 0 -1 4:1 0 -1 8:1 0 0
Example 3
Finish With Acid-Surface Modified Silica
[0060] Silica particles (75 nm and 20 nm) surface modified with an
acid-based coupling agent at 20 percent and 30 percent coverages
were tested in emulsion-based floor finishes. For 20 percent
coverage of 20 nm silica particles, 100.26 grams of Nalco 2327.TM.
were charged to an 8-oz. jar. 4.07 grams of
carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt (at 25 wt % in water) and
100.1 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added to the Nalco
2327.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree.
C. for 17 hours. For 30 percent coverage, 100.06 grams of Nalco
2327.TM. were charged to an 8-oz. jar. 6.1 grams of
carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt (at 25 wt % in water) and
105.0 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added to the Nalco
2327.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree.
C. for 17 hours.
[0061] For 20 percent coverage of the 75 nm silica particles, 100.1
grams of Nalco 2329.TM. were charged to an 8-oz. jar. 1.03 grams of
carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt (at 25 wt % in water) and
100.22 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added to the Nalco 2329
with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree. C. for
17 hours. For 30 percent coverage, 100.18 grams of Nalco 2329.TM.
were charged to an 8-oz. jar. 1.49 grams of
carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt (at 25 wt % in water) and
100.75 grams of D.I. water were mixed and added to the Nalco
2329.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree.
C. for 17 hours.
[0062] The resulting compositions were formulated with the
available Spangle.TM. floor finish (according to the solids ratios
provided below in Tables 3A and 3B) and then tested for soil
resistance and black mark/scuff resistance. Results for the 20
percent particle surface area coverage (both 20 nm silica and 75 nm
silica) samples are provided in Table 3A; results for the 30
percent particle surface area coverage (both 20 nm and 75 run)
samples are provided in Table 3B. The soil resistance improved with
the addition of the 20 nm acid-surface modified silica particle
material. The black mark/scuff resistance increased with the
addition of the 20 nm acid-surface modified silica particle
material samples at 4:1 ratio of Spangle.TM. solids to surface
modified silica solids. The performance decreased as the amount of
surface modified silica was further increased. The 75 nm
acid-surface modified silica particle material samples compared
negatively to the 20 nm surface modified silica samples.
5TABLE 3A Spangle .TM.: Surface modified Silica (Acid-based
Coupling Agent) - 20% Coverage Black Mark/Scuff Soil Resistance
Resistance Spangle .TM.: 20 nm Surface modified Silica 2:1 0.5 -0.5
4:1 0.0 0.5 8:1 0.0 0.0 Spangle .TM.: 75 nm Surface modified Silica
2:1 -1.0 -1.0 4:1 0.0 -0.5 8:1 0.0 0.0
[0063]
6TABLE 3B Spangle .TM.: Surface modified Silica (Acid-based
Coupling Agent) - 30% Coverage Black Mark/Scuff Soil Resistance
Resistance Spangle .TM.: 20 nm Surface modified Silica 2:1 1.0 -1.0
4:1 0.5 0.5 8:1 0.0 0.0 Spangle .TM.: 75 nm Surface modified Silica
2:1 -0.5 0.0 4:1 0.0 0.5 8:1 0.0 0.0
Example 4
Finish With Diacid-Surface Modified Silica
[0064] Silica particles (20 nm) surface modified with a
diacid-based coupling agent were tested. The samples were prepared
as follows. A 50 RB flask was charged with maleic anhydride (3.03
g) available from Aldrich Chemical Company of Milwaukee, Wis., and
THF (15 g). The anhydride dissolved and then triethylamine (0.077
g) and (3-mercaptopropyl)-trimeth- oxysilane (5.99 g), both
available from Aldrich Chemical Company of Milwaukee, Wis., were
added with stirring. The reaction was run at room temperature for
14 hours. The solvent was removed by rotary evaporation to obtain
3-(3-trimethylsilpropylthio)succinic anhydride, a somewhat viscous
dark liquid (9.29 g). Nalco 2327.TM. (50.19 g) was charged to an
8-oz. jar. 3-(3-trimethylsilpropylthio)succinic anhydride (0.742
g), Aqueous Ammonia (2.28 M, 2.7 g) and D.I. water were mixed to
give a total of 50 g solution. The solution was added to the Nalco
2327.TM. with stirring. The jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree.
C. for 15 hours. The resultant surface modified silica particle
material was formulated with available Spangle.TM. floor finish at
ratios of 2:1 and 4:1 of Spangle.TM. solids to surface modified
silica solids. The sample compositions were then tested for soil
resistance and black mark/scuff resistance.
[0065] The results are provided in Table 4. The diacid surface
modified silica samples performed better in soil resistance (in the
case of the higher amount of surface modified silica) and equal in
black mark/scuff resistance as compared to the Spangle.TM. control
sample.
7TABLE 4 Spangle .TM.: 20 nm Surface modified Silica (Diacid-based
Coupling Agent) Black Mark/Scuff Soil Resistance Resistance 2:1 0.5
0.0 4:1 0.0 0.0
Example 5
Acrylic Urethane Copolymer Finish With Surface Modified Inorganic
Particle Material
[0066] Samples were prepared to illustrate performance enhancements
available with finish compositions consisting of an acrylic
urethane polymer matrix and a surface modified inorganic particle
material. In particular, a surface modified inorganic particle
material comprised of 20 nm silica particles surface modified with
an acid-based coupling agent (with 30 percent surface area
coverage) was prepared, as described in Example 3. A finish having
a 2:1 Spangle.TM. solids to surface modified silica solids was
formulated. Hybridur.RTM. 580 (H580) (acrylic urethane hybrid
polymer) was added to prepare several samples having different
ratios (by weight of solids) shown in Table 5 below. Soil and black
mark/scuff resistance testing were performed, with the results
being provided in Table 5. As H580 was added, black mark/scuff
resistance continued to improve. Soil resistance was better than
the Spangle.TM. control sample for all formulations.
8TABLE 5 (2:1 Spangle .TM.: Surface modified Silica): Hybridur
.RTM. 580 Black Mark/Scuff Soil Resistance Resistance 2:1 0.5 2.5
4:1 0.5 1.5 6:1 0.5 1.0 8:1 0.5 1.0
Example 6
Acrylic Urethane Copolymer Finish With Surface Modified Inorganic
Particle Material
[0067] Samples were prepared to further illustrate performance
enhancements available with an acrylic urethane polymer matrix and
surface modified inorganic particle material composition, and in
particular 20 nm silica particles surface modified at 30 percent
surface area coverage by an acid-based coupling agent. The surface
modified silica particle material was prepared by charging a 100 RB
flask, fitted with reflux condenser with D.I. water (24 g) and
Sodium Hydroxide (3.46 g). The components were stirred to dissolve.
3-(triethoxysilyl)propionitr- ile (8.09 g) was charged and the
mixture was heated to 100.degree. C. for six hours. The conversion
to carboxyethylsilanetriol, sodium salt was followed by IR
spectroscopy. The mixture was concentrated via rotary evaporation
to 30 wt % solids in water.
[0068] At 30 percent coverage, 200 grams of Nalco 2327.TM. were
charged to a 16-oz. jar. 9.96 grams of carboxyethylsilanetriol,
sodium salt (at 30 wt % in water, see above) and 200 grams of D.I.
water were mixed and added to the Nalco 2327.TM. with stirring. The
jar was sealed and heated to 80.degree. C. for 16 hours. A
Spangle.TM. floor finish was added to the surface modified silica
to provide 3:1 and 4:1 (Spangle.TM. solids to surface modified
silica solids) samples. Hybridur.RTM. 580 (acrylic urethane hybrid
polymer) was then added to the sample formulations at the solids
(by weight) ratios shown in Table 6. The resulting samples were
tested for soil resistance and black mark/scuff resistance, the
results of which are provided in Table 6. As H580 was added, black
mark/scuff resistance continued to improve. Soil resistance was
better than the control Spangle.TM. sample for all
formulations.
9 TABLE 6 Black Mark/Scuff Soil Resistance Resistance (2:1 Spangle
.TM.: Surface modified Silica): Hybridur .RTM. 580 2:1 1.0 2.5 4:1
1.0 1.5 6:1 1.0 2.0 (4:1 Spangle .TM.: Surface modified Silica):
Hybridur .RTM. 580 2:1 1.0 2.5 4:1 0.5 2.0 6:1 0.5 1.5
Example 7
Taber Abrasion
[0069] Taber abrasion was used to determine the abrasion resistance
of several sample floor finishes. Sample formulations were prepared
including control samples (Spangle.TM.), traditional floor finish
with surface modified silica particles at different ratios
(Spangle.TM. and surface modified silica particles with 30% surface
area coverage) and traditional floor finish with surface modified
particles (same as previous) with varying amounts of acrylic
urethane hybrid polymer (H580) added (pursuant to Example 6). Two
samples of each formulation were tested and three haze
determinations per sample were taken. The haze change versus the
number of cycles for the different formulations are presented in
Table 7 below. As the haze change increased, the abrasion
resistance worsened. The finishes containing only the traditional
acrylic polymers (Spangle.TM.) and Spangle.TM. control with surface
modified silica (S:SMS) showed poor abrasion resistance. The
formulations containing the Spangle.TM.:surface modified
silica:H580 (S:SMS:H580) showed better abrasion resistance. The
higher the amount of the H580 added, the better the abrasion
resistance.
10 TABLE 7 Taber abrasion CS10F (one wheel). 250 g counterweight
125 g 100 cycles 300 cycles Spangle .TM. 21.39 35.86 S:SMS 4:1
24.11 35.55 S:SMS 3:1 20.51 30.08 6(4:1):1 (S:SMS):H580 13.72 24.32
4(4:1):1 (S:SMS):H580 13.83 24.50 2(4:1):1 (S:SMS):H580 11.17 21.66
6(3:1):1 (S:SMS):H580 14.26 28.09 4(3:1):1 (S:SMS):H580 13.34 22.65
2(3:1):1 (S:SMS):H580 12.71 20.76
[0070] The surface finish compositions of the present invention
provide a marked improvement over previous formulations. In
particular, by incorporating a surface modified inorganic particles
material, the resultant composition was shelf stable, with the
particles remaining in suspension for extended periods of time
(well in excess of seven days). The surface finish composition
exhibits increased hardness and modulus as well as enhanced scratch
and soil resistance. Further, the preferred addition of a hybrid
acrylic urethane copolymer increases the overall toughness of the
composition, as well as enhancing black mark/scuff and abrasion
resistance.
[0071] Although the present invention has been described with
reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will
recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without
departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
* * * * *