U.S. patent application number 14/616175 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-04 for compositions for containers and other articles and methods of using same.
This patent application is currently assigned to Valspar Sourcing, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Valspar Sourcing, Inc.. Invention is credited to Richard H. Evans, Jeffrey Niederst, Robert M. O'Brien, Kevin Romagnoli, Mark S. Von Maier.
Application Number | 20150151878 14/616175 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50068569 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150151878 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Niederst; Jeffrey ; et
al. |
June 4, 2015 |
Compositions for Containers and Other Articles and Methods of Using
Same
Abstract
This invention provides a polymer, which is preferably a
polyether polymer. The polymer may be uses in coating compositions.
Containers and other articles comprising the polymer and methods of
making such containers and other articles are also provided. The
invention further provides compositions including the polymer
(e.g., powder coatings), which have utility in a variety of coating
end uses, including, for example, valve and pipe coatings.
Inventors: |
Niederst; Jeffrey;
(Leechburg, PA) ; Evans; Richard H.; (Wexford,
PA) ; O'Brien; Robert M.; (Monongahela, PA) ;
Romagnoli; Kevin; (Pittsburgh, PA) ; Von Maier; Mark
S.; (Harmony, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Valspar Sourcing, Inc. |
Minneapolis |
MN |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Valspar Sourcing, Inc.
Minneapolis
MN
|
Family ID: |
50068569 |
Appl. No.: |
14/616175 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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PCT/US2013/054132 |
Aug 8, 2013 |
|
|
|
14616175 |
|
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61681434 |
Aug 9, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
428/35.8 ;
206/524.3 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 25/14 20130101;
C09D 171/12 20130101; Y10T 428/1355 20150115; C08G 65/2612
20130101; C09D 163/00 20130101; B65D 81/34 20130101; C09D 171/00
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/14 20060101
B65D025/14; C09D 171/12 20060101 C09D171/12; B65D 81/34 20060101
B65D081/34 |
Claims
1. An article comprising: a food or beverage container, or a
portion thereof, having: a metal substrate; and a coating
composition applied on at least a portion of the metal substrate,
the coating composition comprising: a polyether polymer that
includes at least 25% by weight of aryl or heteroaryl groups,
wherein the coating composition is substantially free of bound
bisphenol A, bisphenol F, bisphenol S, polyhydric phenols having
estrogenic activity greater than or equal to that of bisphenol S,
and epoxides thereof; wherein the polyether polymer is formed by
reacting ingredients including: (i) an extender and (ii) a
diepoxide compound, wherein the extender or diepoxide compound, or
both, includes one or more segments of the below Formula (I):
##STR00020## wherein: each of the oxygen atoms depicted in Formula
(I) is present in an ether or ester linkage; v is independently 0
to 4 when t is 0 and v is independently 0 to 3 when t is 1; w is 4;
when t is 1 each of the phenylene groups depicted in Formula (I)
includes at least one Hydrogen atom attached to the ring at an
ortho position relative to the depicted oxygen atoms; each R.sup.1,
if present, is independently an atom or group having an atomic
weight of at least 15 Daltons that is substantially non-reactive
with an epoxy group; R.sup.2, if present, is a divalent group; n is
0 or 1; with the proviso that if n is 0, the phenylene groups
depicted in Formula (I) can optionally join to form a fused ring
system in which case w is 3 and v is 0 to 2; t is 0 or 1; and two
or more R.sup.1 and/or R.sup.2 groups can join to form one or more
cyclic groups.
2. The article of claim 1, wherein the polyether polymer includes
at least 25% by weight of phenylene groups, t is 1 and each of the
phenylene groups depicted in Formula (I) includes two Hydrogen
atoms attached to the ring at an ortho position relative to the
depicted oxygen atom.
3. The article of claim 1, wherein the polyether polymer includes
at least 45% by weight of phenylene groups.
4. The article of claim 1, wherein t is 1, n is 1, and R.sup.2 is
an organic group having 8 or more carbon atoms.
5. The article of claim 1, wherein t is 1, n is 1, and R.sup.2 is a
segment of the structure --C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)--, wherein R.sup.7
and R.sup.8 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom,
an organic group, a sulfur-containing group, or a
nitrogen-containing group, and wherein R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 can
optionally join to form a cyclic group, with the proviso that
R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 are not both --CH.sup.3.
6. The article of claim 5, wherein R.sup.2 has an atomic weight
greater than 200 Daltons.
7. The article of claim 1, wherein t is 1, n is 1, and the ether
oxygen atom of each phenylene group depicted in Formula (I) is
located at a para position relative to R.sup.2.
8. The article of claim 1, wherein the segment of Formula (I) has
an atomic weight of less than 600 Daltons.
9. The article of claim 1, wherein the diepoxide compound includes
one or more segment of Formula (I).
10. The article of claim 9, wherein the extender comprises
hydroquinone, catechol, resorcinol, or a substituted variant
thereof.
11. The article of claim 1, wherein the polyether polymer that has
a Tg of at least 30.degree. C. prior to cure of the coating
composition and includes at least 25 percent by weight of phenylene
groups.
12. The article of claim 1, wherein the coating composition
comprises at least 10 weight percent, based on the total resin
solids of the coating composition, of a polyether polymer having a
number average molecular weight of at least 2,000.
13. The article of claim 1, wherein the polyether polymer has a
glass transition temperature of at least 60.degree. C. prior to
cure of the coating composition.
14. The article of claim 1, wherein the diepoxide compound is not
genotoxic and is derived from a dihydric phenol that includes a
segment of Formula (I) and exhibits a log Relative Proliferative
Effect value in the MCF-7 cell proliferation assay of less than
-3.
15. The article of claim 1, wherein the food or beverage container
or portion thereof has the coating composition applied as a
food-contact coating on an interior surface.
16. The article of claim 1, wherein R.sup.2 includes a polar
group.
17. The article of claim 16, wherein the polar group comprises a
group selected from a ketone, a carboxyl, a carbonate, a hydroxyl,
a phosphate, a sulfoxide, or a combination thereof.
18. The article of claim 1, wherein t is 1, n is 1, and each v is
0.
19. The article of claim 18, wherein: the polyether polymer has a
glass transition temperature of at least 30.degree. C. prior to
cure of the coating composition and a number average molecular
weight of at least 2,000; the segment of Formula (I) has an atomic
weight of less than 600 Daltons; and each of the oxygen atoms
depicted in Formula (I) are present in an ether linkage.
20. The article of claim 19, wherein the extender includes one or
more segments of Formula (I) and the diepoxide is an aliphatic
diepoxide.
21. The article of claim 19, wherein R.sup.2 has one or both of:
(i) an atomic weight greater than 200 Daltons or (ii) a polar group
selected from a ketone, a carboxyl, a carbonate, a hydroxyl, a
phosphate, a sulfoxide, or a combination thereof.
22. The article of claim 1, wherein a mono-layer or multi-layer
coating including a layer formed from the coating composition has
an overall average dry coating thickness of from about 2 to about
15 microns.
23-29. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/681,434 filed on Aug. 9, 2012 and entitled
"Compositions for Containers and Other Articles and Methods of
Using Same," which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The application of coatings to metals to retard or inhibit
corrosion is well established. This is particularly true in the
area of packaging containers such as metal food and beverage cans.
Coatings are typically applied to the interior of such containers
to prevent the contents from contacting the metal of the container.
Contact between the metal and the packaged product can lead to
corrosion of the metal container, which can contaminate the
packaged product. This is particularly true when the contents of
the container are chemically aggressive in nature. Protective
coatings are also applied to the interior of food and beverage
containers to prevent corrosion in the headspace of the container
between the fill line of the food product and the container
lid.
[0003] Packaging coatings should preferably be capable of
high-speed application to the substrate and provide the necessary
properties when hardened to perform in this demanding end use. For
example, the coating should be safe for food contact, not adversely
affect the taste of the packaged food or beverage product, have
excellent adhesion to the substrate, resist staining and other
coating defects such as "popping," "blushing" and/or "blistering,"
and resist degradation over long periods of time, even when exposed
to harsh environments. In addition, the coating should generally be
capable of maintaining suitable film integrity during container
fabrication and be capable of withstanding the processing
conditions that the container may be subjected to during product
packaging.
[0004] Various coatings have been used as interior protective can
coatings, including polyvinyl-chloride-based coatings and
epoxy-based coatings incorporating bisphenol A ("BPA"). Each of
these coating types, however, has potential shortcomings. For
example, the recycling of materials containing polyvinyl chloride
or related halide-containing vinyl polymers can be problematic.
There is also a desire by some to reduce or eliminate certain
BPA-based compounds commonly used to formulate food-contact epoxy
coatings.
[0005] What is needed in the marketplace is an improved binder
system for use in coatings such as, for example, packaging
coatings.
SUMMARY
[0006] This invention provides a polymer useful in a variety of
applications, for example, as a binder polymer of a coating
composition. In preferred embodiments, the polymer does not include
any structural units derived from bisphenol A ("BPA"), bisphenol F
("BPF"), bisphenol S ("BPS"), or any diepoxides thereof (e.g.,
diglycidyl ethers thereof such as the diglycidyl ether of BPA
("BADGE")). In addition, the polymer preferably does not include
any structural units derived from a dihydric phenol, or other
polyhydric phenol, having estrogenic agonist activity greater than
or equal to that of 4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol. More
preferably, the polymer does not include any structural units
derived from a dihydric phenol, or other polyhydric phenol, having
estrogenic agonist activity greater than or equal to that of BPS.
Even more preferably, the polymer does not include (e.g., is
substantially free or completely free of) any structural units
derived from a dihydric phenol, or other polyhydric phenol, having
estrogenic agonist activity greater than
4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)bis(2,6-dibromophenol). Optimally, the
polymer does not include any structural units derived from a
dihydric phenol, or other polyhydric phenol, having estrogenic
agonist activity greater than 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic
acid. The same is preferably true for any other components of a
composition including the polymer.
[0007] In some embodiments, the polymer is a polyether polymer that
contains a plurality of aromatic ether segments. The polyether
polymer may be formed, for example, from reactants including an
extender (e.g., a diol, more typically a polyhydric phenol, even
more typically a dihydric phenol) and a diepoxide compound (e.g., a
polyepoxide of a polyhydric phenol, more typically a diepoxide of a
dihydric phenol). While not intending to be bound by any theory,
one or more of the following structural characteristics may help
avoid undesirable estrogenic agonist activity should any residual
unreacted polyhydric phenol persist: the presence of "bulky"
substituent groups, molecular weight (e.g., of the "bridge" region
of a bisphenol), and the presence of polar groups.
[0008] Preferred polymers of the present invention are suitable for
use in a variety of end uses, including as a film-forming material
of a coating. In some such embodiments, the polymer has a glass
transition temperature ("Tg") of at least 30.degree. C., more
preferably at least 60.degree. C., and a number average molecular
weight of at least 1,000 or at least 2,000. Aryl or heteroaryl
groups preferably constitute at least 25 weight percent of the
polymer.
[0009] In preferred embodiments, the polyether polymer is formed by
reacting ingredients including: (i) an extender (e.g., a diol) and
(ii) a diepoxide compound, wherein one or both of the extender or
the diepoxide compound include one or more segments of the below
Formula (I), and wherein the polyether polymer preferably includes
a plurality of the below segments of Formula (I):
##STR00001##
wherein: [0010] each of the pair of oxygen atoms depicted in
Formula (I) is preferably present in an ether or ester linkage,
more preferably an ether linkage; [0011] "H" denotes a hydrogen
atom; [0012] each R.sup.1, if present, is independently an atom or
group that is preferably substantially non-reactive with an epoxy
group; [0013] v is independently 0 to 4 when t is 0 and v is
independently 0 to 3, more preferably 0 to 2, when t is 1; [0014] w
is 4; [0015] R.sup.2, if present, is preferably a divalent group;
[0016] n is 0 or 1, with the proviso that if n is 0, the phenylene
groups depicted in Formula (I) can optionally join to form a fused
ring system with each other (e.g., a substituted naphthalene
group), in which case w is 3 (as opposed to 4) and v is 0 to 2;
[0017] t is 0 or 1; and [0018] wherein two or more R.sup.1 and/or
R.sup.2 groups can join to form one or more cyclic groups.
[0019] When t is 1, the segment of Formula (I) is a segment of the
below Formula (IA).
##STR00002##
[0020] When t is 0, the segment of Formula (I) is a segment of the
below Formula (IB).
##STR00003##
[0021] The segment of Formula (IA) preferably includes at least one
Hydrogen atom attached to each phenylene ring at an ortho position
relative to the depicted oxygen atoms. More preferably, the segment
of Formula (IA) includes two Hydrogen atoms attached to each
phenylene ring at ortho positions relative to the depicted oxygen
atoms. In some embodiments, the segment of Formula (IA) includes
Hydrogen atoms attached to each phenylene ring at all of the ortho
and meta position relative to the depicted oxygen atoms.
[0022] In certain preferred embodiments, no more than one R.sup.1
is attached to each phenylene ring depicted in Formula (IA) at an
ortho position relative to the depicted oxygen atom. Non-limiting
examples of R.sup.1 groups include groups having at least one
carbon atom, a halogen atom, a sulfur-containing group, or any
other suitable group that is preferably substantially non-reactive
with an epoxy group. If present, organic groups are presently
preferred, with organic groups that are free of halogen atoms being
particularly preferred.
[0023] In preferred embodiments, the polymer also includes pendant
hydroxyl groups (e.g., secondary hydroxyl groups) and, more
preferably, one or more --CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--CH.sub.2-- or
--CH.sup.2--CH.sub.2--CH(OH)-- segments, which are preferably
derived from an oxirane and located in a backbone of the
polymer.
[0024] The present invention also provides a coating composition
that includes the polymer described herein, more preferably a
polyether polymer described herein. The coating composition
preferably includes at least a film-forming amount of the polymer
and may optionally include one or more additional polymers. The
coating composition is useful in coating a variety of substrates,
including as an interior or exterior coating on metal packaging
containers or portions thereof. In preferred embodiments, the
coating composition is useful as a food-contact coating on a food
or beverage container. In preferred embodiments, the coating
composition is at least substantially free of mobile BPA or BADGE,
and more preferably is completely free of BPA or BADGE. More
preferably, the coating composition is at least substantially free,
and more preferably completely free, of mobile or bound polyhydric
phenols having estrogenic agonist activity greater than or equal to
that of 4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol. Even more preferably, the
coating composition is at least substantially free, and more
preferably completely free, of mobile or bound polyhydric phenols
having estrogenic agonist activity greater than or equal to that of
BPS. Even more preferably, the coating composition is at least
substantially free, and more preferably completely free, of mobile
or bound polyhydric phenols having estrogenic agonist activity
greater than that of 4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)bis(2,6-dibromophenol).
Optimally, the coating composition is at least substantially free,
and more preferably completely free, of mobile or bound polyhydric
phenols having estrogenic agonist activity greater than about that
of 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid). The coating composition
may also have utility in a variety of other coating end uses,
including, for example, coatings for valves and fittings,
especially valves and fittings for use with potable water; pipes
for conveying liquids, especially potable water pipes; and liquid
storage tanks, especially potable water tanks, e.g., bolted steel
water tanks.
[0025] In one embodiment, the coating composition of the present
invention is a powder coating composition that preferably includes
a base powder, formed at least in part, from the polymer of the
present invention. The coating composition may include one or more
optional ingredients in the particles of the base powder and/or in
a separate particle. Such optional ingredients may include, for
example, crosslinker, cure accelerator, colored pigment, filler,
flow additives, etc.
[0026] The present invention also provides packaging articles
having a coating composition of the present invention applied to a
surface of the packaging article. In one embodiment, the packaging
article is a container such as a food or beverage container, or a
portion thereof (e.g., a twist-off closure lid, beverage can end,
food can end, etc.), wherein at least a portion of an interior
surface of the container is coated with a coating composition
described herein that is suitable for prolonged contact with a food
or beverage product or other packaged product.
[0027] In one embodiment, a method of preparing a container is
provided that includes an interior, food-contact coating of the
present invention. The method includes: providing a coating
composition described herein that includes a binder polymer and
optionally a liquid carrier; and applying the coating composition
to at least a portion of a surface of a substrate prior to or after
forming the substrate into a container or a portion thereof having
the coating composition disposed on an interior surface. Typically,
the substrate is a metal substrate, although the coating
composition may be used to coat other substrate materials if
desired. Examples of other substrate materials may include
fiberboard, plastic (e.g., polyesters such as, e.g., polyethylene
terephthalates; nylons; polyolefins such as, e.g., polypropylene,
polyethylene, and the like; ethylene vinyl alcohol; polyvinylidene
chloride; and copolymers thereof) and paper.
[0028] In one embodiment, a method of forming food or beverage
cans, or a portion thereof, is provided that includes: applying a
coating composition described herein to a metal substrate (e.g.,
applying the coating composition to the metal substrate in the form
of a planar coil or sheet), hardening the coating composition, and
forming the substrate into a food or beverage can or a portion
thereof.
[0029] In certain embodiments, forming the substrate into an
article includes forming the substrate into a can end or a can
body. In certain embodiments, the article is a two-piece drawn food
can, three-piece food can, food can end, drawn and ironed food or
beverage can, beverage can end, easy open can end, twist-off
closure lid, and the like. Suitable metal substrates include, for
example, steel or aluminum.
[0030] In certain embodiments, a packaging container is provided
having: (a) a coating composition of the present invention disposed
on at least a portion of an interior or exterior surface of the
container and (b) a product packaged therein such as a food,
beverage, cosmetic, or medicinal product.
[0031] In one embodiment, a packaging container having a coating
composition of the present invention disposed on an interior
surface is provided that includes a packaged product intended for
human contact or consumption, e.g., a food or beverage product, a
cosmetic product, or a medicinal product.
[0032] The above summary of the present invention is not intended
to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of
the present invention. The description that follows more
particularly exemplifies illustrative embodiments. In several
places throughout the application, guidance is provided through
lists of examples, which examples can be used in various
combinations. In each instance, the recited list serves only as a
representative group and should not be interpreted as an exclusive
list. Unless otherwise indicated, the structural representations
included herein are not intended to indicate any particular
stereochemistry and are intended to encompass all
stereoisomers.
DEFINITIONS
[0033] As used herein, the term "organic group" means a hydrocarbon
group (with optional elements other than carbon and hydrogen, such
as oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and silicon) that is classified as an
aliphatic group, a cyclic group, or combination of aliphatic and
cyclic groups (e.g., alkaryl and aralkyl groups).
[0034] The term "cyclic group" means a closed ring hydrocarbon
group that is classified as an alicyclic group or an aromatic
group, both of which can include heteroatoms.
[0035] The term "alicyclic group" means a cyclic hydrocarbon group
having properties resembling those of aliphatic groups.
[0036] The term "aryl group" (e.g., an arylene group) refers to a
closed aromatic ring or ring system such as phenylene, naphthylene,
biphenylene, fluorenylene, and indenyl, as well as heteroarylene
groups (e.g., a closed aromatic or aromatic-like ring hydrocarbon
or ring system in which one or more of the atoms in the ring is an
element other than carbon (e.g., nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, etc.)).
Suitable heteroaryl groups include furyl, thienyl, pyridyl,
quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, triazolyl,
pyrrolyl, tetrazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl, oxazolyl, thiazolyl,
benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, carbazolyl, benzoxazolyl,
pyrimidinyl, benzimidazolyl, quinoxalinyl, benzothiazolyl,
naphthyridinyl, isoxazolyl, isothiazolyl, purinyl, quinazolinyl,
pyrazinyl, 1-oxidopyridyl, pyridazinyl, triazinyl, tetrazinyl,
oxadiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, and so on. When such groups are
divalent, they are typically referred to as "arylene" or
"heteroarylene" groups (e.g., furylene, pyridylene, etc.)
[0037] A group that may be the same or different is referred to as
being "independently" something. Substitution on the organic groups
of the compounds of the present invention is contemplated. As a
means of simplifying the discussion and recitation of certain
terminology used throughout this application, the terms "group" and
"moiety" are used to differentiate between chemical species that
allow for substitution or that may be substituted and those that do
not allow or may not be so substituted. Thus, when the term "group"
is used to describe a chemical substituent, the described chemical
material includes the unsubstituted group and that group with O, N,
Si, or S atoms, for example, in the chain (as in an alkoxy group)
as well as carbonyl groups or other conventional substitution.
Where the term "moiety" is used to describe a chemical compound or
substituent, only an unsubstituted chemical material is intended to
be included. For example, the phrase "alkyl group" is intended to
include not only pure open chain saturated hydrocarbon alkyl
substituents, such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, t-butyl, and the like,
but also alkyl substituents bearing further substituents known in
the art, such as hydroxy, alkoxy, alkylsulfonyl, halogen atoms,
cyano, nitro, amino, carboxyl, etc. Thus, "alkyl group" includes
ether groups, haloalkyls, nitroalkyls, carboxyalkyls,
hydroxyalkyls, sulfoalkyls, etc. On the other hand, the phrase
"alkyl moiety" is limited to the inclusion of only pure open chain
saturated hydrocarbon alkyl substituents, such as methyl, ethyl,
propyl, t-butyl, and the like. As used herein, the term "group" is
intended to be a recitation of both the particular moiety, as well
as a recitation of the broader class of substituted and
unsubstituted structures that includes the moiety.
[0038] The term "polyhydric phenol" as used herein refers broadly
to any compound having one or more aryl or heteroaryl groups (more
typically one or more phenylene groups) and at least two hydroxyl
groups attached to a same or different aryl or heteroaryl ring.
Thus, for example, both hydroquinone and 4,4'-biphenol are
considered to be polyhydric phenols. As used herein, polyhydric
phenols typically have six carbon atoms in an aryl ring, although
it is contemplated that aryl or heteroaryl groups having rings of
other sizes may be used.
[0039] The term "diphenol" as used herein refers to a polyhydric
phenol compound that includes two aryl or heteroaryl groups (more
typically two phenylene groups) that each have a hydroxyl group
attached to the aryl or heteroaryl ring. Thus, for example,
hydraquinone is not considered a diphenol.
[0040] The term "phenylene" as used herein refers to a six-carbon
atom aryl ring (e.g., as in a benzene group) that can have any
substituent groups (including, e.g., hydrogen atoms, halogens,
hydrocarbon groups, oxygen atoms, hydroxyl groups, etc.). Thus, for
example, the following aryl groups are each phenylene rings:
--C.sub.6H.sub.4--, --C.sub.6H.sub.3(CH.sub.3)--, and
--C.sub.6H(CH.sub.3).sub.2Cl--. In addition, for example, each of
the aryl rings of a naphthalene group are phenylene rings.
[0041] The term "substantially free" of a particular mobile or
bound compound means that the recited material or composition
contains less than 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of the recited
mobile or bound compound. The term "essentially free" of a
particular mobile or bound compound means that the recited material
or composition contains less than 100 parts per million (ppm) of
the recited mobile or bound compound. The term "essentially
completely free" of a particular mobile or bound compound means
that the recited material or composition contains less than 5 parts
per million (ppm) of the recited mobile or bound compound. The term
"completely free" of a particular mobile or bound compound means
that the recited material or composition contains less than 20
parts per billion (ppb) of the recited mobile or bound compound. If
the aforementioned phrases are used without the term "mobile" or
"bound" (e.g., "substantially free of BPA"), then the recited
material or composition contains less than the aforementioned
amount of the compound whether the compound is mobile or bound.
[0042] The term "mobile" means that the compound can be extracted
from the cured coating when a coating (typically .about.1
mg/cm.sup.2) is exposed to a test medium for some defined set of
conditions, depending on the end use. An example of these testing
conditions is exposure of the cured coating to HPLC-grade
acetonitrile for 24 hours at 25.degree. C.
[0043] The term "bound" when used in combination with one of the
aforementioned phrases in the context, e.g., of a bound compound of
a polymer or other ingredient of a coating composition (e.g., a
polymer that is substantially free of bound BPA) means that the
polymer or other ingredient contains less than the aforementioned
amount of structural units derived from the compound. For example,
a polymer that is substantially free of bound BPA includes less
than 1,000 ppm (or 0.1% by weight), if any, of structural units
derived from BPA.
[0044] When the phrases "does not include any," "free of" (outside
the context of the aforementioned phrases), and the like are used
herein, such phrases are not intended to preclude the presence of
trace amounts of the pertinent structure or compound which may be
present due to environmental contaminants.
[0045] The terms "estrogenic activity" or "estrogenic agonist
activity" refer to the ability of a compound to mimic hormone-like
activity through interaction with an endogenous estrogen receptor,
typically an endogenous human estrogen receptor.
[0046] The term "food-contact surface" refers to the substrate
surface of a container (typically an inner surface of a food or
beverage container) that is in contact with, or intended for
contact with, a food or beverage product. By way of example, an
interior surface of a metal substrate of a food or beverage
container, or a portion thereof, is a food-contact surface even if
the interior metal surface is coated with a polymeric coating
composition.
[0047] The term "unsaturated" when used in the context of a
compound refers to a compound that includes at least one
non-aromatic double bond.
[0048] The term "crosslinker" refers to a molecule capable of
forming a covalent linkage between polymers or between two
different regions of the same polymer.
[0049] The term "on," when used in the context of a coating applied
on a surface or substrate, includes both coatings applied directly
or indirectly to the surface or substrate. Thus, for example, a
coating applied to a primer layer overlying a substrate constitutes
a coating applied on the substrate.
[0050] Unless otherwise indicated, the term "polymer" includes both
homopolymers and copolymers (e.g., polymers of two or more
different monomers). Similarly, unless otherwise indicated, the use
of a term designating a polymer class such as, for example,
"polyether" is intended to include both homopolymers and copolymers
(e.g., polyether-ester copolymers).
[0051] The terms "comprises" and variations thereof do not have a
limiting meaning where these terms appear in the description and
claims.
[0052] The terms "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments
of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain
circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred,
under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation
of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other
embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other
embodiments from the scope of the invention.
[0053] As used herein, "a," "an," "the," "at least one," and "one
or more" are used interchangeably. Thus, for example, a coating
composition that comprises "a" polyether can be interpreted to mean
that the coating composition includes "one or more" polyethers.
[0054] Also herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by
endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1
to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.). Furthermore,
disclosure of a range includes disclosure of all subranges included
within the broader range (e.g., 1 to 5 discloses 1 to 4, 1.5 to
4.5, 4 to 5, etc.).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0055] In one aspect, the present invention provides a coating
composition that includes a polymer, more preferably a binder
polymer, and even more preferably a polyether binder polymer.
Although the ensuing discussion focuses primarily on coating end
uses, it is contemplated that the polymer of the present invention,
as well as intermediates thereof, may have utility in a variety of
other end uses such as, for example, in adhesives or
composites.
[0056] Coating compositions of the present invention preferably
include at least a film-forming amount of the polymer described
herein. In addition to the polymer, the coating composition may
also include one or more additional ingredients such as, for
example, a crosslinker, a liquid carrier, and any other suitable
optional additives. Although any suitable cure mechanism may be
used, thermoset coating compositions are preferred. Moreover,
although coating compositions including a liquid carrier are
presently preferred, it is contemplated that the polymer of the
present invention may have utility in solid coating application
techniques such as, for example, powder coating.
[0057] Coating compositions of the present invention may have
utility in a variety of end uses, including packaging coating end
uses. Other coating end uses may include industrial coatings,
marine coatings (e.g., for ship hulls), storage tanks (e.g., metal
or concrete), architectural coatings (e.g., on cladding, metal
roofing, ceilings, garage doors, etc.), gardening tools and
equipment, toys, automotive coatings, metal furniture coatings,
coil coatings for household appliances, floor coatings, and the
like.
[0058] Preferred coating compositions of the present invention
exhibit a superior combination of coating attributes such as good
flexibility, good substrate adhesion, good chemical resistance and
corrosion protection, good fabrication properties, and a smooth and
regular coating appearance free of blisters and other
application-related defects.
[0059] In preferred embodiments, the coating composition is
suitable for use as an adherent packaging coating and, more
preferably, as an adherent coating on an interior and/or exterior
surface of a food or beverage container. Thus, in preferred
embodiments, the coating composition is suitable for use as a
food-contact coating. It is also contemplated that the coating
composition may have utility in cosmetic packaging or medical
packaging coating end uses, and as a drug-contact coating in
particular (e.g., as an interior coating of a metered dose inhaler
can--commonly referred to as an "MDI" container). It is also
contemplated that the coating composition may have utility in
coating applications in which the coated substrate will contact
bodily fluids such as, e.g., as an interior coating of a blood
vial.
[0060] The ingredients used to make the polymer of the present
invention are preferably free of any dihydric phenols, or
corresponding diepoxides (e.g., diglycidyl ethers), that exhibit an
estrogenic agonist activity in the MCF-7 assay (discussed later
herein) greater than or equal to that that exhibited by
4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol in the assay. More preferably, the
aforementioned ingredients are free of any dihydric phenols, or
corresponding diepoxides, that exhibit an estrogenic agonist
activity in the MCF-7 assay greater than or equal to that of
bisphenol S. Even more preferably, the aforementioned ingredients
are free of any dihydric phenols, or corresponding diepoxides, that
exhibit an estrogenic agonist activity in the MCF-7 assay greater
than that of 4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)bis(2,6-dibromophenol).
Optimally, the aforementioned ingredients are free of any dihydric
phenols, or corresponding diepoxides, that exhibit an estrogenic
agonist activity in the MCF-7 assay greater than about that of
2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid. The same is preferably true
for any other ingredients of a coating composition including the
polymer.
[0061] While not intending to be bound by any theory, it is
believed that a dihydric phenol is less likely to exhibit any
appreciable estrogenic agonist activity if the compound's chemical
structure is sufficiently different from compounds having
estrogenic activity such as diethylstilbestrol. The structure of
preferred dihydric phenol compounds, as will be discussed herein,
are sufficiently different such that the compounds do not bind and
activate a human receptor. These preferred compounds are, in some
instances, at least about 6 or more orders of magnitude less active
than diethylstilbestrol (e.g., when assessing estrogenic agonist
effect using an in vitro assay such as the MCF-7 cell proliferation
assay discussed later herein). Without being bound by theory, it is
believed that such desirable structural dissimilarity can be
introduced via one or more structural features, including any
suitable combination thereof. For example, it is believed that one
or more of the following structural characteristics can be used to
achieve such structural dissimilarity: [0062] segments of Formula
IB; [0063] molecular weight that is arranged in three-dimensional
space such that: (i) the compound does not fit, or does not readily
fit, in the active site of a human estrogen receptor or (ii) the
structural configuration interferes with activation of the human
estrogen receptor once inside the active site, and [0064] the
presence of polar groups (e.g., in addition to the two hydroxyl
groups of a bisphenol compound).
[0065] In one preferred embodiment, the polymer of the present
invention is a polyether polymer formed by reacting: (i) an
extender (e.g., a diol) with (ii) a diepoxide compound, wherein one
or both of the extender or the diepoxide compound include one or
more segments of the below Formula (I), and wherein the polymer
preferably includes a plurality of the below segments of Formula
(I):
##STR00004##
wherein: [0066] each of the pair of oxygen atoms depicted in
Formula (I) is preferably present in an ether or ester linkage,
more preferably an ether linkage; [0067] "H" denotes a hydrogen
atom, if present; [0068] each R.sup.1, if present, is preferably
substantially non-reactive with an epoxy group; [0069] v is
independently 0 to 4 when t is 0 and v is independently 0 to 3,
more preferably 0 to 2, when t is 1; [0070] w is 4; [0071] each of
the phenylene groups depicted in Formula (I) includes at least one
Hydrogen atom attached to the ring at an ortho position relative to
the oxygen atom (more preferably 2 Hydrogen atoms at the ortho
positions, even more preferably Hydrogen atoms at all ortho and
meta positions); [0072] R.sup.2, if present, is preferably a
divalent group; [0073] n is 0 or 1, with the proviso that if n is
0, the phenylene groups depicted in Formula (I) can optionally join
to form a fused ring system (e.g., a substituted naphthalene group)
in which case w is 3 (as opposed to 4) and v is 0 to 2; [0074] t is
0 or 1; and [0075] two or more R.sup.1 and/or R.sup.2 groups can
optionally join to form one or more cyclic groups.
[0076] When t is 1, the segment of Formula (I) is a segment of the
below Formula (IA).
##STR00005##
[0077] When t is 0, the segment of Formula (I) is a segment of the
below Formula (IB).
##STR00006##
[0078] As depicted in the above Formula (I), the segment includes
at least one phenylene group when t is 0 (illustrated in Formula
(IB)) and includes at least two phenylene groups when t is 1
(illustrated in Formula (IA)). The segments of each of Formulas
(IA) and (IB) may optionally include one or more additional
phenylene or other aryl or heteroaryl groups in addition to those
depicted. Although aryl groups having a six-carbon aromatic ring
are presently preferred, it is contemplated that any other suitable
aryl or heteroaryl groups may be used in place of the phenylene
groups depicted in Formula (I). As depicted in the above Formula
(I), the substituent groups (e.g., --O--, H, R.sup.1, and R.sup.2)
of each phenylene group can be located at any position on the ring
relative to one another, although in certain preferred embodiments
at least one R.sup.1 is positioned on the ring immediately adjacent
to the oxygen atom. In other embodiments in which other aryl or
heteroarylene group(s) are used in place of the depicted phenylene
group(s) in Formula (I), it is contemplated that the same would
hold true for the substituent groups of such other aryl or
heteroarylene group(s).
[0079] In preferred embodiments, each R.sup.1 and R.sup.2, if
present, are preferably not reactive with an oxirane group at a
temperature of less than about 200.degree. C.
[0080] In presently preferred embodiments, the R.sup.1 groups of
each phenylene group, if present, preferably includes at least one
carbon atom, more preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and even more
preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms. R.sup.1 will typically be a
saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon group, more typically
saturated, that may optionally include one or more heteroatoms
other than carbon or hydrogen atoms (e.g., N, O, S, Si, a halogen
atom, etc.). Examples of suitable hydrocarbon groups may include
substituted or unsubstituted: alkyl groups (e.g., methyl, ethyl,
propyl, butyl, etc., including isomers thereof), alkenyl groups,
alkynyl groups, alicyclic groups, aryl groups, or combinations
thereof.
[0081] In certain preferred embodiments, each phenylene group
depicted in Formula (I) includes at least one alkyl R.sup.1 group.
As discussed above, any suitable isomer may be used. Thus, for
example, a linear butyl group may be used or a branched isomer such
as an isobutyl group or a tert-butyl group. In one embodiment, a
tert-butyl group (and more preferably a tert-butyl moiety) is a
preferred R.sup.1 group.
[0082] As previously mentioned, it is contemplated that R.sup.1 may
include one or more cyclic groups. In addition, R.sup.1 may form a
cyclic or polycyclic group with one or more other R.sup.1 groups
and/or R.sup.2.
[0083] R.sup.2 is present or absent in the segment of Formula (IA)
depending on whether n is 0 or 1. When R.sup.2 is absent in the
segment of Formula (IA), either (i) a carbon atom of one phenylene
ring is covalently attached to a carbon atom of the other phenylene
ring (which occurs when w is 4) or (ii) the phenylene groups
depicted in Formula (IA) join to form a fused ring system (which
occurs when w is 3 and the two phenylene groups are so fused). In
some embodiments, R.sup.2 (or the ring-ring covalent linkage if
R.sup.2 is absent) is preferably attached to at least one, and more
preferably both, phenylene rings at a para position (i.e., 1,4
position) relative to the oxygen atom depicted in Formula (IA). An
embodiment of the segment of Formula (IA), in which n is 0, w is 3,
and v is independently 0 to 3 such that the two phenylene groups
have joined to form a naphthalene group, is depicted below.
##STR00007##
[0084] R.sup.2 can be any suitable divalent group including, for
example, carbon-containing groups (which may optionally include
heteroatoms such as, e.g., N, O, P, S, Si, a halogen atom, etc.),
sulfur-containing groups (including, e.g., a sulfur atom, a
sulfinyl group (--(S(O)--), a sulfonyl group (--S(O.sub.2)--),
etc.), oxygen-containing groups (including, e.g., an oxygen atom, a
ketone group, etc.), nitrogen-containing groups, or a combination
thereof.
[0085] In preferred embodiments of the segment of Formula (IA),
R.sup.2 is present and is typically an organic group containing
less than about 15 carbon atoms, and even more typically an organic
group containing 1 or 4-15 carbon atoms. In some embodiments,
R.sup.2 includes 8 or more carbon atoms. R.sup.2 will typically be
a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon group, more typically a
saturated divalent alkyl group, and most preferably an alkyl group
that doesn't constrain the movement of the connected phenylene
groups in an orientation similar to that of diethylstilbestrol or
dienestrol. In some embodiments, R.sup.2 may include one or more
cyclic groups, which may be aromatic or alicyclic and can
optionally include heteroatoms. The one or more optional cyclic
groups of R.sup.2 can be present, for example, (i) in a chain
connecting the two phenylene groups depicted in Formula (IA), (ii)
in a pendant group attached to a chain connecting the two phenylene
groups, or both (i) and (ii).
[0086] The atomic weight of the R.sup.2 group, if present, may be
any suitable atomic weight. Typically, however, R.sup.2 has an
atomic weight of less than about 500 Daltons, less than about 400
Daltons, less than 300 Daltons, or less than 250 Daltons.
[0087] In some embodiments, R.sup.2 includes a carbon atom that is
attached to a carbon atom of each of the phenylene groups depicted
in Formula (I). For example, R.sup.2 can have a structure of the
formula --C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)--, wherein R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 are
each independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an organic
group, a sulfur-containing group, a nitrogen-containing group, or
any other suitable group that is preferably substantially
non-reactive with an epoxy group, and wherein R.sup.7 and R.sup.8
can optionally join to form a cyclic group. In some embodiments, at
least one of R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 is a hydrogen atom, and more
preferably both. In one preferred embodiment, R.sup.2 is a divalent
methylene group (--CH.sub.2--). While not intending to be bound by
theory, it is believed that it may be generally desirable to avoid
using an R.sup.2 group wherein each of R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 are
methyl (--CH.sub.3) groups. It may also be generally desirable to
avoid using an R.sup.2 group in which R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 join to
form a monocyclic cyclohexyl group.
[0088] It is also thought to be generally desirable to avoid using
either of the following "constrained" unsaturated structures (i) or
(ii) as R.sup.2: (i) --C(R.sup.9).dbd.C(R.sup.9)-- or (ii)
--C(.dbd.C(R.sup.10).sub.y)--C(.dbd.C(R.sup.10).sub.y)--, wherein y
is 1 or 2 and each of R.sup.9 or R.sup.10 is independently a
hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an organic group, or a monovalent
group. For example, the following unsaturated structures (i) and
(ii) are preferably avoided as R.sup.2: (i)
--C(CH.sub.2CH.sub.3).dbd.C(CH.sub.2CH.sub.3)-- and (ii)
--C(.dbd.CHCH.sub.3)--C(.dbd.CHCH.sub.3)--.
[0089] While not intending to be bound by theory it is believed
that a suitably low atomic weight R.sup.2 group such as, e.g.,
--CH.sub.2-- (14 Daltons), can help avoid estrogenic activity. In
some embodiments where R.sup.2 is a --C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)-- group,
it may be desirable that R.sup.2 have an atomic weight of less than
42 Daltons or less than 28 Daltons. It is also believed that a
suitably high atomic weight R.sup.2 can also help interfere with
the ability of a dihydric phenol to function as an agonist for a
human estrogen receptor. In some embodiments where R.sup.2 is a
--C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)-- group, it may be desirable that R.sup.2
have an atomic weight that is greater than about: 125, 150, 175, or
200 Daltons. By way of example, a diphenol compound has been
determined to be appreciably non-estrogenic that: (a) is not
"hindered" (e.g., the phenol hydroxyl groups are surrounded by
ortho hydrogens) and (b) has an R.sup.2 group in the form of
--C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)-- having an atomic weight greater than 200
Daltons.
[0090] While not intending to be bound to theory, preferred
R.sup.2's include divalent groups that promote that the orientation
of a dihydric phenol compound in a three-dimensional configuration
that is sufficiently different from 17.beta.-estradiol or other
compounds (e.g., diethylstilbestrol) having estrogenic activity.
For example, while not intending to be bound to theory, it is
believed that the presence of R.sup.2 as an unsubstituted methylene
bridge (--CH.sub.2--) can contribute to the reduction or
elimination of estrogenic activity. It is also contemplated that a
singly substituted methylene bridge having one hydrogen attached to
the central carbon atom of the methylene bridge (--C(R.sup.7)(H)--;
see, e.g. the R.sup.2 group of
4,4'Butylidenebis(2-t-butyl-5-methylphenol)) may also contribute
such a beneficial effect, albeit perhaps to a lesser extent.
[0091] In some embodiments, R.sup.2 is of the formula
--C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)-- wherein R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 form a ring
together that includes one or more heteroatoms. In one such
embodiment, the ring formed by R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 further includes
one or more additional cyclic group such as, e.g., one or more aryl
cyclic groups (e.g., two phenylene rings).
[0092] In one embodiment, R.sup.2 is of the formula
--C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)-- wherein at least one of R.sup.7 and R.sup.8
form a ring with an R.sup.1 of the depicted phenylene group. In one
such embodiment, each of R.sup.7 and R.sup.8 forms such a ring with
a different depicted phenylene group.
[0093] In some embodiments, the segment of Formula (I) does not
include any ester linkages in a backbone of R.sup.2 connecting the
pair of depicted phenylene groups. In some embodiments, the polymer
of the present invention does not include any backbone ester
linkages.
[0094] The oxygen atom of a phenylene ring(s) depicted in Formula
(I) can be positioned on the ring at any position relative to
R.sup.2 (or relative to the other phenylene ring if R.sup.2 is
absent). In some embodiments, the oxygen atom (which is preferably
an ether oxygen) and R.sup.2 are located at para positions relative
to one another. In other embodiments, the oxygen atom and R.sup.2
may be located ortho or meta to one another.
[0095] The segments of Formula (I) can be of any suitable size.
Typically, the segments of Formula (I) will have an atomic weight
of less than 1,000, less than 600, or less than 400 Daltons. More
typically, the segments of Formula (I) will have an atomic weight
of about 100 to about 400 Daltons.
[0096] In preferred embodiments, the polymer of the present
invention includes a plurality of segments of Formula (I), which
are preferably dispersed throughout a backbone of the polymer, more
preferably a polyether backbone. In preferred embodiments, the
segments of Formula (I) constitute a substantial portion of the
overall mass of the polymer. Typically, segments of Formula (I)
constitute at least 10 weight percent ("wt-%"), preferably at least
30 wt-%, more preferably at least 40 wt-%, even more preferably at
least 50 wt-%, and optimally at least 55 wt-% of the polymer.
[0097] The weight percent of segments of Formula (I) in the polymer
of the present invention may be below the amounts recited above in
certain situations, and can even be substantially below. By way of
example, the concentration of segments of Formula (I) may be
outside the ranges recited above if the polymer of the present
invention, which is preferably a polyether polymer, includes large
molecular weight additional components such as may occur, for
example, when the polymer is a copolymer such as an
acrylic-containing copolymer (e.g., an acrylic-polyether copolymer
formed by grafting acrylic onto a polyether polymer of the present
invention). In such embodiments, the weight percent of segments of
Formula (I) present in the polymer is preferably as described above
(e.g., .gtoreq.10 wt-%, .gtoreq.30 wt-%, .gtoreq.40 wt-%,
.gtoreq.50 wt-%, .gtoreq.55 wt-%), based on the weight percent of
segments of Formula (I) relative to the total polyether fraction of
the polymer (while not considering the total weight of
non-polyether portions such as, for example, acrylic portions). In
general, the total polyether fraction of the polymer can be
calculated based on the total weight of polyepoxide and polyhydric
phenol reactants incorporated into the polymer.
[0098] Depending upon the particular embodiment, the polymer of the
present invention is preferably amorphous or semi-crystalline.
[0099] The polymer can include branching, if desired. In preferred
embodiments, however, the polymer of the invention is a linear or
substantially linear polymer.
[0100] If desired, the backbone of the polymer may include
step-growth linkages (e.g., condensation linkages) other than ether
linkages (e.g., in addition to, or in place of, the ether linkages)
such as, for example, amide linkages, carbonate linkages, ester
linkages, urea linkages, urethane linkages, etc. Thus, for example,
in some embodiments, the backbone may include both ester and ether
linkages. In some embodiments, the backbone of the polymer does not
include any condensation linkages or other step-growth linkages
other than ether linkages.
[0101] The polymer of the present invention preferably includes
hydroxyl groups. In preferred embodiments, the polymer includes a
plurality of hydroxyl groups attached to the backbone. In preferred
embodiments, polyether portions of the polymer backbone include
secondary hydroxyl groups distributed throughout. Preferred
secondary hydroxyl groups are present in
--CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--CH.sub.2-- or --CH.sub.2--CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--
segments, which are preferably derived from an oxirane group. Such
segments may be formed, for example, via reaction of an oxirane
group and a hydroxyl group (preferably a hydroxyl group of a
polyhydric phenol). In some embodiments,
CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--CH.sub.2-- or CH.sub.2--CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--
segments are attached to each of the ether oxygen atoms of
preferred segments of Formula (I).
[0102] The backbone of the polymer of the present invention may
include any suitable terminal groups, including, for example, epoxy
and/or hydroxyl groups (e.g., a hydroxyl group attached to a
terminal aryl or heteroaryl ring).
[0103] In preferred embodiments, the polymer of the present
invention is formed using reactants that include at least one
polyepoxide compound, more typically at least one diepoxide
compound. Although any suitable ingredients may be used to form the
polymer, in presently preferred embodiments, the polymer is formed
via reaction of ingredients that include: (a) one or more
polyepoxides, more preferably one or more diepoxides, and (b) one
or more polyols, more preferably one or more polyhydric phenols,
and even more preferably one or more dihydric phenols.
[0104] While it is contemplated that the segments of Formula (I)
may be incorporated into the polymer using ingredients other than a
polyepoxide compound, in preferred embodiments some, or all, of the
segments of Formula (I) are incorporated into the polymer using a
polyepoxide compound, and more preferably a diepoxide compound. The
polyepoxide compound may be upgraded by reaction with an extender
(e.g., a diol) to form a binder polymer, more preferably a
polyether binder polymer, of a suitable molecular weight using any
suitable extender or combinations of extenders. As discussed above,
diols (e.g., polyhydric phenols, and dihydric phenols in
particular) are preferred extenders. Examples of other suitable
extenders may include polyacids (and diacids in particular) or
phenol compounds having both a phenol hydroxyl group and a
carboxylic group (e.g., para hydroxy benzoic acid and/or para
hydroxy phenyl acetic acid). Conditions for such reactions are
generally carried out using standard techniques that are known to
one of skill in the art or that are exemplified in the examples
section.
[0105] The epoxy groups (also commonly referred to as "oxirane"
groups) of the polyepoxide compound may be attached to the compound
via any suitable linkage, including, for example, ether-containing
or ester-containing linkages. Glycidyl ethers of polyhydric phenols
and glycidyl esters of polyhydric phenols are preferred polyepoxide
compounds, with diglycidyl ethers being particularly preferred.
[0106] A preferred polyepoxide compound for use in incorporating
segments of Formula (I) into the polymer of the present invention
is depicted in the below Formula (II):
##STR00008##
wherein: [0107] R.sup.1, R.sup.2, n, t, v, and w are as described
above for Formula (I); [0108] s is 0 to 1, more preferably 1;
[0109] R.sup.3, if present, is a divalent group, more preferably a
divalent organic group; and [0110] preferably each R.sup.4 is
independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, or a hydrocarbon
group that may include one or more heteroatoms; more preferably
each R.sup.4 is a hydrogen atom.
[0111] When t is 1, the polyepoxide of Formula (II) is a segment of
the below Formula (IIA).
##STR00009##
[0112] When t is 0, the polyepoxide of Formula (II) is a segment of
the below Formula (IIB).
##STR00010##
[0113] R.sup.3 is typically a hydrocarbyl group, which may
optionally include one or more heteroatoms. Preferred hydrocarbyl
groups include groups having from one to four carbon atoms, with
methylene groups being particularly preferred. In some embodiments,
R.sup.3 includes a carbonyl group. In one such embodiment, R.sup.3
includes a carbonyl group that is attached to the oxygen atom
depicted in Formula (II) (e.g., as in an ester linkage).
[0114] In presently preferred embodiments, R.sup.4 is a hydrogen
atom.
[0115] Preferred polyepoxide compounds of Formula (II) are
non-mutagenic, more preferably non-genotoxic. A useful test for
assessing both mutagenicity and genotoxicity is the mammalian in
vivo assay known as the in vivo alkaline single cell gel
electrophoresis assay (referred to as the "comet" assay). The
method is described in: Tice, R. R. "The single cell gel/comet
assay: a microgel electrophoretic technique for the detection of
DNA damage and repair in individual cells." Environmental
Mutagenesis. Eds. Phillips, D. H and Venitt, S. Bios Scientific,
Oxford, UD, 1995, pp. 315-339. A negative test result in the comet
assay indicates that a compound is non-genotoxic and, therefore,
non-mutagenic, though a positive test does not definitively
indicate the opposite and in such cases a more definitive test may
be utilized (e.g., a two-year rat feeding study).
[0116] If t of Formula (II) is 0, v is preferably 1 or more, more
preferably 2 or more. While not intending to be bound by any
theory, it is believed that the presence of one or more R.sup.1
groups, and particularly one or more ortho R.sup.1 groups, can
contribute to the diepoxide of Formula (IIB) being non-genotoxic.
By way of example, 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone is
non-genotoxic.
[0117] In some embodiments, the polyepoxide compound of Formula
(II) is formed via epoxidation of a dihydric phenol compound (e.g.,
via a reaction using epichlorohydrin or any other suitable
material). Such a dihydric phenol compound is depicted in the below
Formula (III), wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, n, t, v, and w are as in
Formula (I):
##STR00011##
[0118] When t is 1, the compound of Formula (III) is of the below
Formula (IIIA).
##STR00012##
[0119] When t is 0, the compound of Formula (III) is of the below
Formula (IIIB).
##STR00013##
[0120] Preferred compounds of Formula (III) do not exhibit
appreciable estrogenic activity. Preferred appreciably
non-estrogenic compounds exhibit a degree of estrogen agonist
activity, in a competent in vitro human estrogen receptor assay,
that is preferably less than that exhibited by
4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol in the assay, even more preferably
less than that exhibited by bisphenol S in the assay, even more
preferably less than that exhibited by
4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)bis(2,6-dibromophenol) in the assay, and
optimally less than about that exhibited by
2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid in the assay.
[0121] The MCF-7 assay is a useful test for assessing whether a
polyhydric phenol compound is appreciably non-estrogenic. The MCF-7
assay uses MCF-7, clone WS8, cells to measure whether and to what
extent a substance induces cell proliferation via estrogen receptor
(ER)-mediated pathways. The method is described in "Test Method
Nomination: MCF-7 Cell Proliferation Assay of Estrogenic Activity"
submitted for validation by CertiChem, Inc. to the National
Toxicology Program Interagency Center for the Evaluation of
Alternative Toxicological Methods (NICEATM) on Jan. 19, 2006
(available online at
http://iccvam.niehs.nih.gov/methods/endocrine/endodocs/SubmDoc.pdf).
[0122] A brief summary of the method of the aforementioned MCF-7
assay is provided below. MCF-7, clone WS8, cells are maintained at
37.degree. C. in RMPI (or Roswell Park Memorial Institute medium)
containing Phenol Red (e.g., GIBCO Catalog Number 11875119) and
supplemented with the indicated additives for routine culture. An
aliquot of cells maintained at 37.degree. C. are grown for 2 days
in phenol-free media containing 5% charcoal stripped fetal bovine
serum in a 25 cm.sup.2 tissue culture flask. Using a robotic
dispenser such as an epMotion 5070 unit, MCF-7 cells are then
seeded at 400 cells per well in 0.2 ml of hormone-free culture
medium in Corning 96-well plates. The cells are adapted for 3 days
in the hormone-free culture medium prior to adding the chemical to
be assayed for estrogenic activity. The media containing the test
chemical is replaced daily for 6 days. At the end of the 7-day
exposure to the test chemical, the media is removed, the wells are
washed once with 0.2 ml of HBSS (Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution),
and then assayed to quantify amounts of DNA per well using a
micro-plate modification of the Burton diphenylamine (DPA) assay,
which is used to calculate the level of cell proliferation.
[0123] Examples of appreciably non-estrogenic polyhydric phenols
include polyhydric phenols that, when tested using the MCF-7 assay,
exhibit a Relative Proliferative Effect ("RPE") having a
logarithmic value (with base 10) of less than about -2.0, more
preferably an RPE of -3 or less, and even more preferably an RPE of
-4 or less. RPE is the ratio between the EC50 of the test chemical
and the EC50 of the control substance 17-beta estradiol times 100,
where EC50 is "effective concentration 50%" or half-maximum
stimulation concentration for cell proliferation measured as total
DNA in the MCF-7 assay.
[0124] A Table is provided below that includes some exemplary
preferred polyhydric compounds of Formula (III) and their expected
or measured logarithmic RPE values in the MCF-7 assay. The
structures of some of the compounds included in the Table are
provided following the Table, with the number listed below each
structure corresponding to that listed in the Table.
TABLE-US-00001 Struc- Reference Log Polyhydric Compound of Formula
(III) ture Compound RPE 17.beta.-estradiol 2.00 diethylstil- about
2 bestrol dienestrol about 2 Genistein -2 Bisphenol S (not
preferred) -2 Bisphenol F (not preferred) -2
4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)bis(2,6- 16 -3 dibromophenol)
4,4',4''-(ethane-1,1,1-triyl)triphenol 3 -3
4,4'-(1-phenylethane-1,1-diyl)diphenol 4 -3
2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic 5 less acid than -4
4,4'-butylidenebis(2-t-butyl-5- 7 less methylphenol) than -4
4,4'-(1,4-phenylenebis(propane-2,2- 10 less diyl))diphenol than -4
2,2'methylenebis(phenol) 11 less than -4 2,5-di-t-butylhydroquinone
12 less than -4
##STR00014##
[0125] Compounds having no appreciable estrogenic activity may be
beneficial in the event that any unreacted, residual compound may
be present in a cured coating composition. While the balance of
scientific data does not indicate that the presence in cured
coatings of very small amounts of residual compounds having
estrogenic activity in an in vitro recombinant cell assay pose a
human health concern, the use of compounds having no appreciable
estrogenic activity in such an assay may nonetheless be desirable
from a public perception standpoint. Thus, in preferred
embodiments, the polymer of the present invention is preferably
formed using polyhydric phenol compounds that do not exhibit
appreciable estrogenic activity in the MCF-7 assay.
[0126] It is believed that the inhibition/elimination of estrogenic
activity may be attributable to one or more of the following: (a)
the compound having an arranged molecular weight due to the
presence of the one or more substituent groups, (b) the presence of
polar groups and/or (c) ortho hydroxyl groups relative to
R.sup.2.
[0127] It is believed that molecular weight may be a structural
characteristic pertinent to whether a polyhydric phenol is
appreciably non-estrogenic. For example, while not intending to be
bound by any theory, it is believed that if a sufficient amount of
relatively "densely" packed molecular weight is present in a
polyhydric phenol, it can prevent the compound from being able to
fit into the active site of an estrogen receptor. In some
embodiments, it may be beneficial to form a polyether polymer from
one or more polyhydric phenols that includes at least the following
number of carbon atoms: 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26 carbon atoms.
In one such embodiment, a polyhydric phenol of Formula (III) is
used to make the polyether polymer, where (a) v is independently 0
to 3 and (b) R.sup.2 is of the formula --C(R.sup.7)(R.sup.8)-- and
includes at least 8, at least 10, at least 12, or at least 14
carbon atoms (or otherwise has an R.sup.2 of sufficiently high
atomic weight to prevent the compound from fitting into the active
site).
[0128] The presence of one or more polar groups on the polyhydric
phenol compounds of Formula (III) may be beneficial in certain
embodiments, particularly for certain embodiment of Formula (IIIA).
The polar groups may be located at any suitable location of the
compounds of Formula (III), including in R.sup.1 or R.sup.2.
Suitable polar groups may include ketone, carboxyl, carbonate,
hydroxyl, phosphate, sulfoxide, and the like, any other polar
groups disclosed herein, and combinations thereof.
[0129] The below compounds of Formula (III) may also be used in
certain embodiments if desired.
##STR00015##
[0130] The below compounds are not presently preferred, but may be
used in certain embodiments, if desired.
##STR00016##
[0131] Additional diphenol compounds that may have utility in
producing the polymer of the present invention are provided below.
Such compounds are believed to be appreciably non-estrogenic for
one or more of the reasons previously described herein.
##STR00017## ##STR00018##
[0132] Dihydric phenol compounds of Formula (III) can be converted
to a diepoxide using any suitable process and materials. The use of
epichlorohydrin in the epoxidation process is presently
preferred.
[0133] The term "upgrade dihydric phenol" is used hereinafter to
refer to a polyhydric phenol capable of participating in a reaction
with the polyepoxide of Formula (II) to build molecular weight and
preferably form a polymer. Any suitable upgrade polyhydric phenol
may be used in forming a polymer of the present invention. However,
the use of bisphenol A is not preferred. Preferred upgrade dihydric
phenols are free of bisphenol A and preferably do not exhibit
appreciable estrogenic activity.
[0134] Examples of suitable upgrade dihydric phenols for use in
forming the polyether polymer include any of the compounds of
Formula (III), with compounds of Formula (III) in which the
hydroxyl group are unhindered by adjacent R groups being generally
preferred for purposes of reaction efficiency. Some specific
examples of suitable upgrade dihydric phenols include hydroquinone,
catechol, p-tert-butyl catechol, resorcinol, substituted variants
thereof (e.g., substituted catechols such as 3-methylcatechol,
4-methylcatechol, 4-tert-butyl catechol, and the like; substituted
hydroquinones such as methylhydroquinone, 2,5-dimethylhydroquinone,
trimethylhydroquinone, tetramethylhydroquinone, ethylhydroquinone,
2,5-diethylhydroquinone, triethylhydroquinone,
tetraethylhydroquinone, tert-butylhydroquionone,
2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone, and the like; and substituted
resorcinols such as 2-methylresorcinol, 4-methyl resorcinol,
2,5-dimethylresorcinol, 4-ethylresorcinol, 4-butylresorcinol,
4,6-di-tert-butylresorcinol, 2,4,6-tri-tert-butylresorcinol, and
the like), or a mixture thereof. Hydroquinone is a presently
preferred compound.
[0135] In some embodiments, the upgrade dihydric phenol is a
compound of Formula III and includes an R.sup.2 group having one or
more cyclic groups (e.g., alicyclic and/or aromatic groups), which
may be monocyclic or polycyclic groups (e.g., a divalent:
norbornane, norbornene, tricyclodecane, bicyclo[4.4.0]decane, or
isosorbide group, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments,
R.sup.2 of the upgrade dihydric phenol includes one or more ester
linkages. For example, in some embodiments, R.sup.2 is a
--R.sup.6.sub.w--Z--R.sup.5--Z--R.sup.6.sub.w-- segment, where:
R.sup.5 is a divalent organic group; each R.sup.6, if present, is
independently a divalent organic group; each Z is independently an
ester linkage that can be of either directionality (e.g.,
--C(O)--O-- or --O--C(O)--; and each w is independently 0 or 1. In
one such embodiment, R.sup.5 includes at least one divalent cyclic
group such as, for example, a divalent polycyclic group, a divalent
aryl or heteroarylene group (e.g., a substituted or unsubstituted
phenylene group) or a divalent alicyclic group (e.g., a substituted
or unsubstituted cyclohexane or cyclohexene group). In one
embodiment, R.sup.2 is
--R.sup.6.sub.w--C(O)--O--R.sup.5--O--C(O)--R.sup.6.sub.w--. A
further discussion of suitable segments containing ester linkages
and materials for incorporating such segments into the polymer of
the invention is provided in U.S. Published Application No.
2007/0087146 by Evans et. al. and Published International
Application No. WO 2011/130671 by Niederst et al.
[0136] By way of example, an upgrade dihydric phenol having a
cyclic-group-containing R.sup.2 may be formed by reacting (a) a
suitable amount (e.g., about 2 moles) of a Compound A having a
phenol hydroxyl group and a carboxylic acid or other active
hydrogen group with (b) a suitable amount (e.g., about 1 mole) of a
di-functional or higher Compound B having one or more cyclic groups
(monocyclic and/or polycyclic) and two or more active hydrogen
groups capable of reacting with the active hydrogen group of
Compound A. Examples of preferred Compounds A include 4-hydroxy
phenyl acetic acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid,
and derivatives or mixtures thereof. Examples of preferred
Compounds B include cyclic-containing diols such as cyclohexane
dimethanol (CHDM); tricyclodecane dimethanol (TCDM);
2,2,4,4-Tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol; a polycyclic anyhydrosugar
such as isosorbide, isomannide, or isoidide; and derivatives or
mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the cyclic group may be
formed after reaction of Compounds A and B. For example, a
Diels-Alder reaction (using, e.g., cyclopentadiene as a reactant)
could be used to incorporate an unsaturated bicyclic group such as
a norbornene group into Compound B, in which case Compound B in its
unreacted form would need to include at least one non-aromatic
carbon-carbon double bond in order to participate in the
Diels-Alder reaction. For further discussion of suitable materials
and techniques relating to such Diels-Alder reactions see, for
example, Published International App. Nos. WO 2010/118356 by
Skillman et al. and WO 2010/118349 by Hayes et al.
[0137] Some examples of cyclic-group-containing and
ester-link-containing upgrade dihydric phenol compounds are
provided below. These compounds are discussed in further detail in
the previously referenced Published International Application No.
WO 2011/130671 by Niederst et al.
##STR00019##
[0138] It is also contemplated that the polymer of the present
invention may be formed via reaction of ingredients including the
dihydric phenol compound of Formula (III) and a diepoxide other
than that of Formula (II). Examples of such compounds include
compounds such as 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol diglycidyl ether
(CHDMDGE), neopentyl glycol diglycidyl ether,
2-methy-1,3-propanediol diglycidyl ether, tricyclodecane dimethanol
diglycidyl ether, diepoxides of tetra methyl cyclobutanediol (e.g.,
the diglycidyl ether of
1,3-dihydroxy-2,2,4,4,tetramethylcyclobutane), alternative
diepoxides thereof (e.g., diepoxides other the diglycidyl ethers),
and combinations thereof. While not intending to be bound by any
theory, some such aliphatic diepoxides (e.g., CHDMDGE and neopentyl
glycol diglycidyl ether) that tend to yield polymers having lower
Tg values may not be suitable for certain interior packaging
coating applications in which a relatively high Tg polymer is
desirable for purposes of corrosion resistance, although they may
be suitable for exterior packaging coating applications or other
end uses.
[0139] If desired, one or more comonomers and/or co-oligomers may
be included in the reactants used to generate the polymer of the
present invention. Non-limiting examples of such materials include
adipic acid, azelaic acid, terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, and
combinations thereof. The comonomers and/or cooligomers may be
included in an initial reaction mixture of polyepoxide and
polyhydric phenol and/or may be post-reacted with the resulting
polyether oligomer or polymer. In presently preferred embodiments,
a comonomer and/or co-oligomer is not utilized to produce a
polyether polymer of the present invention.
[0140] Preferred polymers of the present invention may be made in a
variety of molecular weights. Preferred polyether polymers of the
present invention have a number average molecular weight (Mn) of at
least 2,000, more preferably at least 3,000, and even more
preferably at least 4,000. The molecular weight of the polyether
polymer may be as high as is needed for the desired application.
Typically, however, the Mn of the polyether polymer, when adapted
for use in a liquid coating composition, will not exceed about
11,000. In some embodiments, the polyether polymer has an Mn of
about 5,000 to about 8,000. In embodiments where the polymer of the
present invention is a copolymer, such as for example a
polyether-acrylic copolymer, the molecular weight of the overall
polymer may be higher than that recited above, although the
molecular weight of the polyether polymer portion will typically be
as described above. Typically, however, such copolymers will have
an Mn of less than about 20,000.
[0141] The polymer of the present invention may exhibit any
suitable polydispersity index (PDI). In embodiments in which the
polymer is a polyether polymer intended for use as a binder polymer
of a liquid applied packaging coating (e.g., a food or beverage can
coating), the polyether polymer will typically exhibit a PDI of
from about 1.5 to 5, more typically from about 2 to 3.5, and in
some instances from about 2.2 to 3 or about 2.4 to 2.8.
[0142] Advancement of the molecular weight of the polymer may be
enhanced by the use of a catalyst in the reaction of a diepoxide
with one or more upgrade comonomers such as, e.g., a polyhydric
phenol of Formula (IV). Typical catalysts usable in the advancement
of the molecular weight of the epoxy material of the present
invention include amines, hydroxides (e.g., potassium hydroxide),
phosphonium salts, and the like. A presently preferred catalyst is
a phosphonium catalyst. The phosphonium catalyst useful in the
present invention is preferably present in an amount sufficient to
facilitate the desired condensation reaction.
[0143] Alternatively, epoxy-terminated polymers of the present
invention may be reacted with fatty acids to form polymers having
unsaturated (e.g., air oxidizable) reactive groups, or with acrylic
acid or methacrylic acid to form free-radically curable
polymers.
[0144] Advancement of the molecular weight of the polymer may also
be enhanced by the reaction of a hydroxyl- or epoxy-terminated
polymer of the present invention with a suitable diacid (such as
adipic acid).
[0145] As discussed above, in certain preferred embodiments, the
coating composition of the present invention is suitable for use in
forming a food-contact packaging coating. In order to exhibit a
suitable balance of coating properties for use as a food-contact
packaging coating, including suitable corrosion resistance when in
prolonged contact with packaged food or beverage products which may
be of a corrosive nature, the polymer of the present invention
preferably has a glass transition temperature ("Tg") of at least
60.degree. C., more preferably at least 70.degree. C., and even
more preferably at least 80.degree. C. In preferred embodiments,
the Tg is less than 150.degree. C., more preferably less than
130.degree. C., and even more preferably less than 110.degree. C.
Tg can be measured via differential scanning calorimetry ("DSC")
using the methodology disclosed in the Test Methods section. In
preferred embodiments, the polymer is a polyether polymer
exhibiting a Tg pursuant to the aforementioned Tg values.
[0146] While not intending to be bound by any theory, it is
believed that it is important that the polymer exhibit a Tg such as
that described above in applications where the coating composition
will be in contact with food or beverage products during retort
processing at high temperature (e.g., at temperatures at or above
about 100.degree. C. and sometimes accompanied by pressures in
excess of atmospheric pressure), and particularly when retort
processing food or beverage products that are more chemically
aggressive in nature. It is contemplated that, in some embodiments,
such as, for example, where the coating composition is intended for
use as an exterior varnish on a food or beverage container, the Tg
of the polymer may be less than that described above (e.g., as low
as about 30.degree. C.) and the coating composition may still
exhibit a suitable balance of properties in the end use.
[0147] When the Tg of a polymer is referenced herein in the context
of a coating composition including the polymer or a coated article
coated with such a coating composition, the indicated Tg value for
the polymer refers to the Tg of the polymer prior to any cure of a
coating composition including the polymer.
[0148] While not intending to be bound by any theory, it is
believed that the inclusion of a sufficient number of aryl and/or
heteroaryl groups (typically phenylene groups) in the binder
polymer of the present invention is an important factor for
achieving suitable coating performance for food-contact packaging
coatings, especially when the product to be packaged is a so called
"hard-to-hold" food or beverage product. Sauerkraut is an example
of a hard-to-hold product. In preferred embodiments, aryl and/or
heteroaryl groups constitute at least 25 wt-%, more preferably at
least 30 wt-%, even more preferably at least 35 wt-%, and optimally
at least 45 wt-% of the polyether polymer, based on the total
weight of aryl and heteroaryl groups in the polymer relative to the
weight of the polyether polymer. The upper concentration of
aryl/heteroaryl groups is not particularly limited, but preferably
the amount of such groups is configured such that the Tg of the
polyether polymer is within the Tg ranges previously discussed. The
total amount of aryl and/or heteroaryl groups in the polyether
polymer will typically constitute less than about 80 wt-%, more
preferably less than 75 wt-%, even more preferably less than about
70 wt-%, and optimally less than 60 wt-% of the polyether polymer.
The total amount of aryl and/or heteroaryl groups in the polyether
polymer can be determined based on the weight of aryl- or
heteroaryl-containing monomer incorporated into the polyether
polymer and the weight fraction of such monomer that constitutes
aryl or heteroaryl groups. In embodiments where the polymer is a
polyether copolymer (e.g., a polyether-acrylic copolymer), the
weight fraction of aryl or heteroaryl groups in the polyether
polymer portion(s) of the copolymer will generally be as described
above, although the weight fraction relative to the total weight of
the copolymer may be less.
[0149] Preferred aryl or heteroaryl groups include less than 20
carbon atoms, more preferably less than 11 carbon atoms, and even
more preferably less than 8 carbon atoms. The aryl or heteroaryl
groups preferably have at least 4 carbon atoms, more preferably at
least 5 carbon atoms, and even more preferably at least 6 carbon
atoms. Substituted or unsubstituted phenylene groups are preferred
aryl or heteroaryl groups. Thus, in preferred embodiments, the
polyether fraction of the polymer includes an amount of phenylene
groups pursuant to the amounts recited above.
[0150] In one embodiment, the polymer of the present invention does
not include any structural units derived from hydrogenated
bisphenol A or a diepoxide of hydrogenated bisphenol A.
[0151] The polymers of the present invention can be applied to a
substrate as part of a coating composition that includes a liquid
carrier. The liquid carrier may be water, organic solvent, or
mixtures of various such liquid carriers. Accordingly, liquid
coating compositions of the present invention may be either
water-based or solvent-based systems. Examples of suitable organic
solvents include glycol ethers, alcohols, aromatic or aliphatic
hydrocarbons, dibasic esters, ketones, esters, and the like, and
combinations thereof. Preferably, such carriers are selected to
provide a dispersion or solution of the polymer for further
formulation.
[0152] It is expected that a polyether polymer of the present
invention may be substituted for any conventional epoxy polymer
present in a packaging coating composition known in the art. Thus,
for example, the polyether polymer of the present invention may be
substituted, for example, for a BPA/BADGE-containing polymer of an
epoxy/acrylic latex coating system, for a BPA/BADGE-containing
polymer of a solvent based epoxy coating system, etc. The amount of
binder polymer of the present invention included in coating
compositions may vary widely depending on a variety of
considerations such as, for example, the method of application, the
presence of other film-forming materials, whether the coating
composition is a water-based or solvent-based system, etc. For
liquid-based coating compositions, however, the binder polymer of
the present invention will typically constitute at least 10 wt-%,
more typically at least 30 wt-%, and even more typically at least
50 wt-% of the coating composition, based on the total weight of
resin solids in the coating composition. For such liquid-based
coating compositions, the binder polymer will typically constitute
less than about 90 wt-%, more typically less than about 80 wt-%,
and even more typically less than about 70 wt-% of the coating
composition, based on the total weight of resin solids in the
coating composition.
[0153] In one embodiment, the coating composition is an organic
solvent-based composition preferably having at least 20 wt-%
non-volatile components ("solids"), and more preferably at least 25
wt-% non-volatile components. Such organic solvent-based
compositions preferably have no greater than 40 wt-% non-volatile
components, and more preferably no greater than 25 wt-%
non-volatile components. For this embodiment, the non-volatile
film-forming components preferably include at least 50 wt-% of the
polymer of the present invention, more preferably at least 55 wt-%
of the polymer, and even more preferably at least 60 wt-% of the
polymer. For this embodiment, the non-volatile film-forming
components preferably include no greater than 95 wt-% of the
polymer of the present invention, and more preferably no greater
than 85 wt-% of the polymer.
[0154] In some embodiments, the coating composition of the present
invention is a solvent-based system that includes no more than a de
minimus amount of water (e.g., less than 2 wt-% of water), if any.
One example of such a coating composition is a solvent-based
coating composition that includes no more than a de minimus amount
of water and includes: on a solids basis, from about 30 to 99 wt-%,
more preferably from about 50 to 85 wt-% of polyether polymer of
the present invention; a suitable amount of crosslinker (e.g., a
phenolic crosslinker or anhydride crosslinker); and optionally
inorganic filler (e.g., TiO.sub.2) or other optional additives. In
one such solvent-based coating composition of the present
invention, the polyether polymer is a high molecular weight
polyether polymer that preferably has an M.sub.n of about 7,500 to
about 10,500, more preferably about 8,000 to 10,000, and even more
preferably about 8,500 to about 9,500.
[0155] In one embodiment, the coating composition is a water-based
composition preferably having at least 15 wt-% non-volatile
components. In one embodiment, the coating composition is a
water-based composition preferably having no greater than 50 wt-%
non-volatile components, and more preferably no greater than 40
wt-% non-volatile components. For this embodiment, the non-volatile
components preferably include at least 5 wt-% of the polymer of the
present invention, more preferably at least 25 wt-% of the polymer,
even more preferably at least 30 wt-% of the polymer, and optimally
at least 40 wt-% of the polymer. For this embodiment, the
non-volatile components preferably include no greater than 70 wt-%
of the polymer of the present invention, and more preferably no
greater than 60 wt-% of the polymer.
[0156] If a water-based system is desired, techniques may be used
such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,943,187; 4,076,676;
4,247,439; 4,285,847; 4,413,015; 4,446,258; 4,963,602; 5,296,525;
5,527,840; 5,830,952; 5,922,817; 7,037,584; and 7,189,787.
Water-based coating systems of the present invention may optionally
include one or more organic solvents, which will typically be
selected to be miscible in water. The liquid carrier system of
water-based coating compositions will typically include at least 50
wt-% of water, more typically at least 75 wt-% of water, and in
some embodiments more than 90 wt-% or 95 wt-% of water. Any
suitable means may be used to render the polymer of the present
invention miscible in water. For example, the polymer may include a
suitable amount of salt groups such as ionic or cationic salt
groups to render the polymer miscible in water (or groups capable
of forming such salt groups). Neutralized acid or base groups are
preferred salt groups.
[0157] In some embodiments, the polymer of the present invention is
covalently attached to one or more materials (e.g., oligomers or
polymers) having salt or salt-forming groups to render the polymer
water-dispersible. The salt or salt-forming group containing
material may be, for example, oligomers or polymers that are (i)
formed in situ prior to, during, or after formation of the polymer
of the present invention or (ii) provided as preformed materials
that are reacted with a preformed, or nascent, polymer of the
present invention. The covalent attachment may be achieved through
any suitable means including, for example, via reactions involving
carbon-carbon double bonds, hydrogen abstraction (e.g., via a
reaction involving benzoyl peroxide mediated grafting via hydrogen
abstraction such as, e.g., described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,212,781),
or the reaction of complimentary reactive functional groups such as
occurs, e.g., in condensation reactions. In one embodiment, a
linking compound is utilized to covalently attach the polyether
polymer and the salt- or salt-forming-group-containing material. In
certain preferred embodiments, the one or more materials having
salt or salt-forming groups is an acrylic material, more preferably
an acid- or anhydride-functional acrylic material.
[0158] In one embodiment, a water-dispersible polymer may be formed
from preformed polymers (e.g., (a) an oxirane-functional polymer,
such as, e.g., a polyether polymer, preferably having at least one
segment of Formula (I) and (b) an acid-functional polymer such as,
e.g., an acid-functional acrylic polymer) in the presence of an
amine, more preferably a tertiary amine. If desired, an
acid-functional polymer can be combined with an amine, more
preferably a tertiary amine, to at least partially neutralize it
prior to reaction with an oxirane-functional polymer preferably
having at least one segment of Formula (I).
[0159] In another embodiment, a water-dispersible polymer may be
formed from an oxirane-functional polymer (more preferably a
polyether polymer described herein) preferably having at least one
segment of Formula (I) that is reacted with ethylenically
unsaturated monomers to form an acid-functional polymer, which may
then be neutralized, for example, with a base such as a tertiary
amine. Thus, for example, in one embodiment, a water-dispersible
polymer preferably having at least one segment of Formula (I) may
be formed pursuant to the acrylic polymerization teachings of U.S.
Pat. No. 4,285,847 and/or U.S. Pat. No. 4,212,781, which describe
techniques for grafting acid-functional acrylic groups (e.g., via
use of benzoyl peroxide) onto epoxy-functional polymers. In another
embodiment, acrylic polymerization may be achieved through reaction
of ethylenically unsaturated monomers with unsaturation present in
the polymer preferably containing at least one segment of Formula
(I). See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,517,322 and/or U.S.
Published Pat. Application No. 2005/0196629 for examples of such
techniques.
[0160] In another embodiment, a water-dispersible polymer may be
formed having the structure E-L-A, wherein E is an epoxy portion of
the polymer formed from a polyether polymer described herein, A is
a polymerized acrylic portion of the polymer, and L is a linking
portion of the polymer which covalently links E to A. Such a
polymer can be prepared, for example, from (a) a polyether polymer
described herein preferably having about two epoxy groups, (b) an
unsaturated linking compound preferably having (i) a carbon-carbon
double bond, a conjugated carbon-carbon double bonds or a
carbon-carbon triple bond and (ii) a functional group capable of
reacting with an epoxy group (e.g., a carboxylic group, a hydroxyl
group, an amino group, an amido group, a mercapto group, etc.).
Preferred linking compounds include 12 or less carbon atoms, with
sorbic acid being an example of a preferred such linking compound.
The acrylic portion preferably includes one or more salt groups or
salt-forming groups (e.g., acid groups such as present in
.alpha.,.beta.-ethylenically saturated carboxylic acid monomers).
Such polymers may be formed, for example, using a BPA- and
BADGE-free polyether polymer of the present invention in
combination with the materials and techniques disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,830,952 or U.S. Pub. No. 2010/0068433.
[0161] In some embodiments, the coating composition of the present
invention is substantially free of acrylic components. For example,
in some embodiment the coating composition includes less than about
5 wt-% or less than about 1 wt-% of polymerized acrylic monomers
(e.g., a mixture of ethylenically unsaturated monomers that include
at least some monomer selected from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid,
or esters thereof).
[0162] In another embodiment, a polymer preferably containing
segments of Formula (I) and including
--CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--CH.sub.2-- or --CH.sup.2--CH.sub.2--CH(OH)--
segments, which are derived from an oxirane, is reacted with an
anhydride. This provides acid functionality which, when combined
with an amine or other suitable base to at least partially
neutralize the acid functionality, is water dispersible.
[0163] In some embodiments, the coating composition of the present
invention is a low VOC coating compositions that preferably
includes no greater than 0.4 kilograms ("kg") of volatile organic
compounds ("VOCs") per liter of solids, more preferably no greater
than 0.3 kg VOC per liter of solids, even more preferably no
greater than 0.2 kg VOC per liter of solids, and optimally no
greater than 0.1 kg VOC per liter of solids.
[0164] Reactive diluents may optionally be used to yield such low
VOC coating compositions. The reactive diluent preferably functions
as a solvent or otherwise lowers the viscosity of the blend of
reactants. The use of one or more reactive diluents as a "solvent"
eliminates or reduces the need to incorporate a substantial amount
of other cosolvents (such as butanol) during processing.
[0165] Reactive diluents suitable for use in the present invention
preferably include free-radical reactive monomers and oligomers. A
small amount of reactive diluent that can undergo reaction with the
polymer of the present invention may be used (e.g., hydroxy
monomers such as 2-hydroxy ethylmethacrylate, amide monomers such
as acrylamide, and N-methylol monomers such as N-methylol
acrylamide). Suitable reactive diluents include, for example, vinyl
compounds, acrylate compounds, methacrylate compounds, acrylamides,
acrylonitriles, and the like and combinations thereof. Suitable
vinyl compounds include, for example, vinyl toluene, vinyl acetate,
vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, styrene, substituted styrenes,
and the like and combinations thereof. Suitable acrylate compounds
include butyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate,
isobutyl acrylate, tert-butyl acrylate, methyl acrylate,
2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, poly(ethylene glycol)acrylate, isobornyl
acrylate, and combinations thereof. Suitable methacrylate compounds
include, for example, butyl methacrylate, methyl methacrylate,
ethyl methacrylate, isobutyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl
methacrylate, poly(ethylene glycol)methacrylate, poly(propylene
glycol)methacrylate, and the like and combinations thereof.
Preferred reactive diluents include styrene and butyl acrylate.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,037,584 provides additional discussion of suitable
materials and methods relating to the use of reactive diluents in
low-VOC packaging coating compositions.
[0166] Any suitable amount of one or more reactive diluents may
optionally be employed in coating composition of the present
invention. For example, an amount of one or more reactive diluents
sufficient to achieve the VOC content of the aforementioned low-VOC
coating compositions may be used. In some embodiments, the coating
composition includes at least about 1 weight percent, at least
about 5 weight percent, or at least 10 weight percent of
polymerized reactive diluent.
[0167] In one embodiment, a polyether polymer of the present
invention is blended, in any suitable order, with acrylic component
(e.g., acrylic resin) and reactive diluent. The polyether polymer
and the acrylic component are preferably reacted with one another
(although they may be used as a simple blend), either before or
after addition of reactive diluents, to form a polyether-acrylate
copolymer. The polyether-acrylate and the reactive diluents are
preferably further dispersed in water. The reactive diluent is then
preferably polymerized in the presence of the polyether-acrylate
copolymer to form a coating composition having the desired low VOC
content. In this context, the term "reactive diluent" relates to
monomers and oligomers that are preferably essentially non-reactive
with the polyether resin or any carboxylic acid moiety (or other
functional group) that might be present, e.g., on the acrylic
resin, under contemplated blending conditions. The reactive
diluents are also preferably capable of undergoing a reaction to
form a polymer, described as an interpenetrating network with the
polymer of the present invention, or with unsaturated moieties that
may optionally be present, e.g., on an acrylic resin.
[0168] A coating composition of the present invention may also
include other optional ingredients that do not adversely affect the
coating composition or a cured coating composition resulting
therefrom. Such optional ingredients are typically included in a
coating composition to enhance composition esthetics; to facilitate
manufacturing, processing, handling, or application of the
composition; or to further improve a particular functional property
of a coating composition or a cured coating composition resulting
therefrom. For example, the composition that includes a polymer of
the present invention may optionally include crosslinkers, fillers,
catalysts, lubricants, pigments, surfactants, dyes, colorants,
toners, coalescents, extenders, anticorrosion agents, flow control
agents, thixotropic agents, dispersing agents, antioxidants,
oxygen-scavenging materials, adhesion promoters, light stabilizers,
and mixtures thereof, as required to provide the desired film
properties. Each optional ingredient is preferably included in a
sufficient amount to serve its intended purpose, but not in such an
amount to adversely affect a coating composition or a cured coating
composition resulting therefrom.
[0169] Preferred compositions are substantially free of one or both
of mobile BPA or mobile BADGE, and more preferably essentially free
of these compounds, even more preferably essentially completely
free of these compounds, and optimally completely free of these
compounds. The coating composition is also preferably substantially
free of one or both of bound BPA and bound BADGE, more preferably
essentially free of these compounds, even more preferably
essentially completely free of these compounds, and optimally
completely free of these compounds. In addition, preferred
compositions are also substantially free, more preferably
essentially free, even more preferably essentially completely free,
and optimally completely free of one or more or all of: bisphenol
S, bisphenol F, and the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F or
bisphenol S.
[0170] It has been discovered that coating compositions
incorporating the aforementioned polymer-containing compositions
may be formulated using one or more optional curing agents (e.g.,
crosslinking resins, sometimes referred to as "crosslinkers"). The
choice of particular crosslinker typically depends on the
particular product being formulated. For example, some coating
compositions are highly colored (e.g., gold-colored coatings).
These coatings may typically be formulated using crosslinkers that
themselves tend to have a yellowish color. In contrast, white
coatings are generally formulated using non-yellowing crosslinkers,
or only a small amount of a yellowing crosslinker.
[0171] Preferred curing agents are substantially free of mobile or
bound BPA and BADGE and more preferably completely free of mobile
or bound BPA and BADGE. Suitable examples of such curing agents are
hydroxyl-reactive curing resins such as phenoplasts, aminoplast,
blocked or unblocked isocyanates, or mixtures thereof.
[0172] Suitable phenoplast resins include the condensation products
of aldehydes with phenols. Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are
preferred aldehydes. Various phenols can be employed such as
phenol, cresol, p-phenylphenol, p-tert-butylphenol,
p-tert-amylphenol, cyclopentylphenol, and compounds of Formula
(III) or any other polyhydric phenols disclosed herein.
[0173] Suitable aminoplast resins are the condensation products of
aldehydes such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, crotonaldehyde, and
benzaldehyde with amino- or amido-group-containing substances such
as urea, melamine, and benzoguanamine. Examples of suitable
aminoplast crosslinking resins include, without limitation,
benzoguanamine-formaldehyde resins, melamine-formaldehyde resins,
etherified melamine-formaldehyde, and urea-formaldehyde resins.
[0174] Examples of other generally suitable curing agents are the
blocked or non-blocked aliphatic, cycloaliphatic or aromatic di-,
tri-, or poly-valent isocyanates, such as hexamethylene
diisocyanate, cyclohexyl-1,4-diisocyanate, and the like. Further
non-limiting examples of generally suitable blocked isocyanates
include isomers of isophorone diisocyanate, dicyclohexylmethane
diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate, diphenylmethane diisocyanate,
phenylene diisocyanate, tetramethyl xylene diisocyanate, xylylene
diisocyanate, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, blocked
isocyanates are used that have an Mn of at least about 300, more
preferably at least about 650, and even more preferably at least
about 1,000.
[0175] Polymeric blocked isocyanates are useful in certain
embodiments. Some examples of suitable polymeric blocked
isocyanates include a biuret or isocyanurate of a diisocyanate, a
trifunctional "trimer," or a mixture thereof. Examples of suitable
blocked polymeric isocyanates include TRIXENE BI 7951, TRIXENE BI
7984, TRIXENE BI 7963, TRIXENE BI 7981 (TRIXENE materials are
available from Baxenden Chemicals, Ltd., Accrington, Lancashire,
England), DESMODUR BL 3175A, DESMODUR BL3272, DESMODUR BL3370,
DESMODUR BL 3475, DESMODUR BL 4265, DESMODUR PL 340, DESMODUR VP LS
2078, DESMODUR VP LS 2117, and DESMODUR VP LS 2352 (DESMODUR
materials are available from Bayer Corp., Pittsburgh, Pa., USA), or
combinations thereof. Examples of suitable trimers may include a
trimerization product prepared from on average three diisocyanate
molecules or a trimer prepared from on average three moles of
diisocyanate (e.g., HMDI) reacted with one mole of another compound
such as, for example, a triol (e.g., trimethylolpropane).
[0176] The level of curing agent (e.g., crosslinker) used will
typically depend on the type of curing agent, the time and
temperature of the bake, the molecular weight of the binder
polymer, and the desired coating properties. If used, the
crosslinker is typically present in an amount of up to 50 wt-%,
preferably up to 30 wt-%, and more preferably up to 15 wt-%. If
used, a crosslinker is preferably present in an amount of at least
0.1 wt-%, more preferably at least 1 wt-%, and even more preferably
at least 1.5 wt-%. These weight percentages are based upon the
total weight of the resin solids in the coating composition.
[0177] In some embodiments, the coating composition of the present
invention are "formaldehyde-free" coatings that include, or
liberate as a result of curing, no greater than 1% by weight
formaldehyde, no greater than 0.5% by weight formaldehyde, no
greater than 0.25% by weight formaldehyde, or no greater than 5 ppm
formaldehyde. The absence of phenolic resin and/or melamine is
believed to contribute to a coating composition that is appreciably
free of formaldehyde.
[0178] As previously discussed, in some embodiments, the coating
composition of the present invention includes an acrylic component
which may optionally be covalently attached to the polyether
polymer described herein. In some embodiments, the acrylic
component may be present as a separate polymer blended with the
polyether polymer (in addition to any acrylic component that may
optionally be covalently attached to the polyether polymer).
[0179] The coating composition of the present invention may include
any amount of acrylic component suitable to produce the desired
film or coating properties. In some acrylic-component-containing
embodiments, the coating composition includes an amount of acrylic
component of at least about 5 wt-%, more preferably at least about
10 wt-%, and even more preferably at least about 15 wt-%, as
determined by an amount of a monomer mixture used to prepare the
acrylic component and based on the total weight of resin solids in
the coating system. In such embodiments, the coating composition
preferably includes an amount of acrylic component of less than
about 95 wt-%, more preferably less than about 75 wt-%, and even
more preferably less than about 30 to 40 wt-%, as determined by an
amount of a monomer mixture used to prepare the acrylic component
and based on the total weight of resin solids in the coating
system.
[0180] In certain water-based embodiments in which at least some of
the acrylic component is covalently attached to the polyether
polymer, at least a portion of the acrylic monomers used to form
the acrylic component are preferably capable of rending the
polyether polymer dispersible in water. In such embodiments, the
acrylic component is preferably formed from an ethylenically
unsaturated monomer mixture that includes one or more
.alpha.,.beta.-unsaturated carboxylic acid. The one or more
.alpha.,.beta.-unsaturated carboxylic acid preferably renders the
polymer water-dispersible after neutralization with a base.
Suitable .alpha.,.beta.-unsaturated carboxylic acid monomers
include, for example, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, crotonic
acid, itaconic acid, maleic acid, mesaconic acid, citraconic acid,
sorbic acid, fumaric acid, and mixtures thereof. The acrylic
monomer also can include, for example, acrylamide or
methacrylamide, which can render the polymer water dispersible.
Preferred acrylic components for use in packaging coating
applications are substantially free, or completely free, of
acrylamide- or methacrylamide-type monomers.
[0181] The acrylic monomers used to form the acrylic component can
include 0% up to about 95%, by total weight of monomers, of vinyl
monomers.
[0182] The acrylic component preferably includes one or more
non-functional monomers and one or more functional monomers (more
preferably acid-functional monomers, and even more preferably
acid-functional acrylic monomers). In presently preferred
embodiments, the acrylic component includes one or more vinyl
monomers. The acrylic component is preferably prepared through
chain-growth polymerization using one or more ethylenically
unsaturated monomers.
[0183] Examples of suitable ethylenically unsaturated
non-functional monomers such as styrene, halostyrenes,
a-methylstyrene, alkyl esters of acrylic acid (e.g., methyl
acrylate, ethyl acrylate, butyl acrylate, etc.), alkyl esters of
methacrylic acid and/or crotonic acid (e.g., methyl, ethyl, propyl,
butyl, pentyl, hexyl, octyl, decyl, dodecyl methacrylates and
crotonates), vinyl cyclohexane, vinyl cyclooctane, vinyl
cyclohexene, hexanediol diacrylate, dimethyl maleate, dibutyl
fumarate and similar diesters, vinyl naphthalene, vinyl toluene,
vinyl acetate, vinyl propionate, vinyl cyclooctane, ally
methacrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, and diesters of maleic
anhydride. Preferred non-functional monomers include styrene, ethyl
acrylate, butyl methacrylate, and combinations thereof.
[0184] Examples of functional monomers include
.alpha.,.beta.-unsaturated carboxylic acids such as, e.g., those
previously described; amide-functional monomers; hydroxy-functional
monomers (e.g., hydroxyalkyl acrylate or methacrylate monomers such
as hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA),
hydroxypropyl acrylate (HPA), hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA),
etc.); oxirane-functional monomers (e.g., glycidyl acrylate and
glycidyl methacrylate) and variations and combinations thereof.
Preferred non-functional monomers include styrene, ethyl acrylate,
butyl methacrylate, and combinations thereof. Preferred functional
monomers include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, and combinations
thereof.
[0185] The combination and/or ratio(s) of the above monomers of the
acrylic component may be adjusted to provide a desired coating or
film property. Preferably, at least a portion of the above monomers
of the acrylic component are capable of rendering the resin system
dispersible in an aqueous carrier. Examples of monomers capable of
rendering the resin system dispersible in an aqueous carrier
include acid-functional monomers that form salt groups upon
neutralization with a base.
[0186] While not intending to be bound by theory, it is believed
that, for certain embodiments of the present invention, the glass
transition temperature (Tg) of the acrylic component is a factor
that can contribute to coating compositions exhibiting suitable
resistance to retort processes associated with certain food and
beverage products. In general, the Fox equation may be employed to
calculate the theoretical Tg of the acrylic component. In some
embodiments, the acrylic component has a Tg of at least about
40.degree. C., preferably at least about 60.degree. C., more
preferably at least about 80.degree. C., and even more preferably
at least about 90.degree. C. By way of example, a water-dispersible
polymer having an E-L-A described previously herein can include an
acrylic component having such a Tg. The acrylic component
preferably has a Tg of less than about 280.degree. C., more
preferably less than about 220.degree. C., even more preferably
less than about 180.degree. C., even more preferably less than
about 160.degree. C., and optimally less than about 150.degree. C.
In some embodiments, the acrylic component has a Tg of less than
about 130.degree. C., or less than about 120.degree. C. In some
embodiments, the acrylic component has a Tg greater than about
100.degree. C., more preferably from about 100.degree. C. to about
120.degree. C.
[0187] In other embodiments, it may be beneficial to use an acrylic
component having a Tg of less than 50.degree. C., 40.degree. C., or
even less than 30.degree. C. For example, in certain embodiments in
which high resistance to retort processing conditions is not a
requirement, such an acrylic component may be used to confer one or
more other desired properties.
[0188] A coating composition of the present invention may also
include other optional polymers that do not adversely affect the
coating composition or a cured coating composition resulting
therefrom. Such optional polymers are typically included in a
coating composition as a filler material, although they can also be
included, for example, as a binder polymer, a crosslinking
material, or to provide desirable properties. One or more optional
polymers (e.g., filler polymers) can be included in a sufficient
amount to serve an intended purpose, but not in such an amount to
adversely affect a coating composition or a cured coating
composition resulting therefrom.
[0189] Such additional polymeric materials can be nonreactive, and
hence, simply function as fillers. Such optional nonreactive filler
polymers include, for example, polyesters, acrylics, polyamides,
polyethers, and novalacs. Alternatively, such additional polymeric
materials or monomers can be reactive with other components of the
composition (e.g., an acid-functional or unsaturated polymer). If
desired, reactive polymers can be incorporated into the
compositions of the present invention, to provide additional
functionality for various purposes, including crosslinking or
dispersing the polymer of the present invention into water.
Examples of such reactive polymers include, for example,
functionalized polyesters, acrylics, polyamides, and polyethers.
Preferred optional polymers are substantially free or essentially
free of mobile BPA and BADGE, and more preferably essentially
completely free or completely free of mobile and bound such
compounds.
[0190] One preferred optional ingredient is a catalyst to increase
the rate of cure. Examples of catalysts, include, but are not
limited to, strong acids (e.g., phosphoric acid, dodecylbenzene
sulphonic acid (DDBSA), available as CYCAT 600 from Cytec, methane
sulfonic acid (MSA), p-toluene sulfonic acid (pTSA),
dinonylnaphthalene disulfonic acid (DNNDSA), and triflic acid);
quaternary ammonium compounds; phosphorous compounds; and tin,
titanium, and zinc compounds. Specific examples include, but are
not limited to, a tetraalkyl ammonium halide, a tetraalkyl or
tetraaryl phosphonium iodide or acetate, tin octoate, zinc octoate,
triphenylphosphine, and similar catalysts known to persons skilled
in the art. If used, a catalyst is preferably present in an amount
of at least 0.01 wt-%, and more preferably at least 0.1 wt-%, based
on the weight of nonvolatile material in the coating composition.
If used, a catalyst is preferably present in an amount of no
greater than 3 wt-%, and more preferably no greater than 1 wt-%,
based on the weight of nonvolatile material in the coating
composition.
[0191] Another useful optional ingredient is a lubricant (e.g., a
wax), which facilitates manufacture of fabricated metal articles
(e.g., closures and food or beverage can ends) by imparting
lubricity to sheets of coated metal substrate. Non-limiting
examples of suitable lubricants include, for example, natural waxes
such as Carnauba wax or lanolin wax, polytetrafluoroethane (PTFE)
and polyethylene-type lubricants. If used, a lubricant is
preferably present in the coating composition in an amount of at
least 0.1 wt-%, and preferably no greater than 2 wt-%, and more
preferably no greater than 1 wt-%, based on the total weight of
nonvolatile material in the coating composition.
[0192] Another useful optional ingredient is a pigment, such as
titanium dioxide. If used, a pigment is present in the coating
composition in an amount of no greater than 70 wt-%, more
preferably no greater than 50 wt-%, and even more preferably no
greater than 40 wt-%, based on the total weight of solids in the
coating composition.
[0193] Surfactants can be optionally added to the coating
composition, e.g., to aid in flow and wetting of the substrate.
Examples of surfactants, include, but are not limited to,
nonylphenol polyethers and salts and similar surfactants known to
persons skilled in the art. If used, a surfactant is preferably
present in an amount of at least 0.01 wt-%, and more preferably at
least 0.1 wt-%, based on the weight of resin solids. If used, a
surfactant is preferably present in an amount no greater than 10
wt-%, and more preferably no greater than 5 wt-%, based on the
weight of resin solids.
[0194] In some embodiments, the polyether polymer of the invention
is included in a layer of a monolayer or multilayer coating system
including a layer incorporating a thermoplastic dispersion (e.g., a
halogenated polyolefin dispersion such as, e.g., a
polyvinylchloride ("PVC") organosol). In one embodiment, the
polyether polymer is included in a primer layer of such a
multilayer coating system including another layer (e.g., a top
layer) incorporating a thermoplastic dispersion. Such multilayer
coating systems are described in the U.S. Provisional Application
entitled "Container Coating System" (Attorney Docket Number
160-P-2218USP1) filed on even date herewith. In another embodiment,
the polyether polymer is included in the layer incorporating the
thermoplastic dispersion, e.g., as a stabilizer for PVC and/or as a
co-resin, which is described in the U.S. Provisional Application
entitled "Stabilizer and Coating Compositions Thereof" (Attorney
Docket Number 160P-2207USP1) filed on even date herewith.
[0195] In some embodiments, the coating composition is "PVC-free."
That is, in some embodiments, the coating composition preferably
contains less than 2 wt-% of vinyl chloride materials, more
preferably less than 0.5 wt-% of vinyl chloride materials, and even
more preferably less than 1 ppm of vinyl chloride materials.
[0196] The coating composition of the present invention can be
present as a layer of a mono-layer coating system or one or more
layers of a multi-layer coating system. The coating composition can
be used as a primer coat, an intermediate coat, a top coat, or a
combination thereof. The coating thickness of a particular layer
and the overall coating system will vary depending upon the coating
material used, the substrate, the coating application method, and
the end use for the coated article. Mono-layer or multi-layer
coating systems including one or more layers formed from a coating
composition of the present invention may have any suitable overall
coating thickness, but will typically have an overall average dry
coating thickness of from about 1 to about 60 microns and more
typically from about 2 to about 15 microns. Typically, the average
total coating thickness for rigid metal food or beverage can
applications will be about 3 to about 10 microns. Coating systems
for closure applications may have an average total coating
thickness up to about 15 microns. In certain embodiments in which
the coating composition is used as an interior coating on a drum
(e.g., a drum for use with food or beverage products), the total
coating thickness may be approximately 25 microns.
[0197] The coating composition of the present invention may be
applied to a substrate either prior to, or after, the substrate is
formed into an article (such as, for example, a food or beverage
container or a portion thereof). In one embodiment, a method is
provided that includes: applying a coating composition described
herein to a metal substrate (e.g., applying the composition to the
metal substrate in the form of a planar coil or sheet), hardening
the composition, and forming (e.g., via stamping) the substrate
into a packaging container or a portion thereof (e.g., a food or
beverage can or a portion thereof). For example, riveted beverage
can ends having a cured coating of the present invention on a
surface thereof can be formed in such a process. In another
embodiment, the coating composition is applied to a preformed metal
food or beverage can, or a portion thereof. For example, in some
embodiments, the coating composition is spray applied to an
interior surface of a preformed food or beverage can (e.g., as
typically occurs with "two-piece" food or beverage cans). After
applying the coating composition onto a substrate, the composition
can be cured using a variety of processes, including, for example,
oven baking by either conventional or convectional methods, or any
other method that provides an elevated temperature suitable for
curing the coating. The curing process may be performed in either
discrete or combined steps. For example, substrates can be dried at
ambient temperature to leave the coating compositions in a largely
un-crosslinked state. The coated substrates can then be heated to
fully cure the compositions. In certain instances, coating
compositions of the present invention can be dried and cured in one
step.
[0198] The cure conditions will vary depending upon the method of
application and the intended end use. The curing process may be
performed at any suitable temperature, including, for example, oven
temperatures in the range of from about 100.degree. C. to about
300.degree. C., and more typically from about 177.degree. C. to
about 250.degree. C. If metal coil is the substrate to be coated,
curing of the applied coating composition may be conducted, for
example, by heating the coated metal substrate over a suitable time
period to a peak metal temperature ("PMT") of preferably greater
than about 350.degree. F. (177.degree. C.). More preferably, the
coated metal coil is heated for a suitable time period (e.g., about
5 to 900 seconds, more typically about 5 to 30 seconds) to a PMT of
at least about 425.degree. F. (218.degree. C.).
[0199] The coating compositions of the present invention are
particularly useful for coating metal substrates. The coating
compositions may be used to coat packaging articles such as a food
or beverage container, or a portion thereof. In preferred
embodiments, the container is a food or beverage can and the
surface of the container is the surface of a metal substrate. The
polymer can be applied to a metal substrate either before or after
the substrate is formed into a can (e.g., two-piece cans,
three-piece cans) or portions thereof, whether it be a can end or
can body. Preferred polymers of the present invention are suitable
for use in food-contact situations and may be used on the inside of
such cans. They are particularly useful on the interior of
two-piece or three-piece can ends or bodies.
[0200] The metal substrate used in forming rigid food or beverage
cans, or portions thereof, typically has a thickness in the range
of about 0.005 inches to about 0.025 inches. Electro tinplated
steel, cold-rolled steel, and aluminum are commonly used as metal
substrates for food or beverage cans, or portions thereof. In
embodiments in which a metal foil substrate is employed in forming,
e.g., a packaging article, the thickness of the metal foil
substrate may be even thinner that that described above.
[0201] The coating compositions of the present invention may be
suitable, for example, for spray coating, coil coating, wash
coating, sheet coating, and side seam coating (e.g., food can side
seam coating). A further discussion of such application methods is
provided below. It is contemplated that coating compositions of the
present invention may be suitably used in each of these application
methods discussed further below, including the end uses associated
therewith.
[0202] Spray coating includes the introduction of the coated
composition into the inside of a preformed packaging container.
Typical preformed packaging containers suitable for spray coating
include food cans, beer and beverage containers, and the like. The
spray process preferably utilizes a spray nozzle capable of
uniformly coating the inside of the preformed packaging container.
The sprayed preformed container is then subjected to heat to remove
any residual carriers (e.g., water or solvents) and harden the
coating.
[0203] In one embodiment, the coating composition of the present
invention is a water-based "inside spray" coating suitable for
spray application to the interior surfaces of a two-piece food or
beverage can, which preferably includes from about 15 to about 40
wt-% of nonvolatile materials, more preferably 15 to 25 wt-%
nonvolatile materials for inside spray for two-piece beer and
beverage cans.
[0204] A coil coating is described as the coating of a continuous
coil composed of a metal (e.g., steel or aluminum). Once coated,
the coating coil is subjected to a short thermal, ultraviolet,
and/or electromagnetic curing cycle, for hardening (e.g., drying
and curing) of the coating. Coil coatings provide coated metal
(e.g., steel and/or aluminum) substrates that can be fabricated
into formed articles, such as two-piece drawn food cans,
three-piece food cans, food can ends, drawn and ironed cans,
beverage can ends, and the like. In one embodiment, the coating
composition of the present invention is a water-based coating
composition that is applied to aluminum or steel coating from which
riveted beverage can ends are subsequently fabricated.
[0205] A wash coating is commercially described as the coating of
the exterior of two-piece drawn and ironed ("D&I") cans with a
thin layer of protectant coating. The exterior of these D&I
cans are "wash-coated" by passing pre-formed two-piece D&I cans
under a curtain of a coating composition. The cans are inverted,
that is, the open end of the can is in the "down" position when
passing through the curtain. This curtain of coating composition
takes on a "waterfall-like" appearance. Once these cans pass under
this curtain of coating composition, the liquid coating material
effectively coats the exterior of each can. Excess coating is
removed through the use of an "air knife." Once the desired amount
of coating is applied to the exterior of each can, each can is
passed through a thermal, ultraviolet, and/or electromagnetic
curing oven to harden (e.g., dry and cure) the coating. The
residence time of the coated can within the confines of the curing
oven is typically from 1 minute to 5 minutes. The curing
temperature within this oven will typically range from 150.degree.
C. to 220.degree. C.
[0206] A sheet coating is described as the coating of separate
pieces of a variety of materials (e.g., steel or aluminum) that
have been pre-cut into square or rectangular "sheets." Typical
dimensions of these sheets are approximately one square meter. Once
coated, the coating is hardened (e.g., dried and cured) and the
coated sheets are collected and prepared for subsequent
fabrication. Sheet coatings provide coated metal (e.g., steel or
aluminum) substrate that can be successfully fabricated into formed
articles, such as two-piece drawn food cans, three-piece food cans,
food can ends, drawn and ironed cans, beverage can ends (including,
e.g., riveted beverage can ends having a rivet for attaching a pull
tab thereto), and the like. In one embodiment, the coating
composition of the present invention is a solvent-based coating
composition that is applied to steel or aluminum sheets that are
subsequently fabricated into the above described packaging
articles.
[0207] A side seam coating is described as the application of a
powder coating or the spray application of a liquid coating over
the welded area of formed three-piece food cans. When three-piece
food cans are being prepared, a rectangular piece of coated
substrate is formed into a cylinder. The formation of the cylinder
is rendered permanent due to the welding of each side of the
rectangle via thermal welding. Once welded, each can typically
requires a layer of coating, which protects the exposed "weld" from
subsequent corrosion or other effects to the contained foodstuff.
The coatings that function in this role are termed "side seam
stripes." Typical side seam stripes are spray applied and cured
quickly via residual heat from the welding operation in addition to
a small thermal, ultraviolet, and/or electromagnetic oven.
[0208] Other commercial coating application and curing methods are
also envisioned, for example, electrocoating, extrusion coating,
laminating, powder coating, and the like.
[0209] In certain preferred embodiments, the coating composition of
the present invention is capable of exhibiting one or more (and in
some embodiments all) of the following coating properties: good
blush resistance, good corrosion resistance, good stain resistance,
good flexibility (e.g., good resistance to drop can damage,
suitability for use as a beverage can end coating, etc), and good
adhesion to metal substrate), when subjected to the testing
described below in Examples.
[0210] The polymer of the present invention can be used in powder
coating applications, e.g., for use in forming an adherent
polymeric coating. Thus, in some embodiments, the coating
composition of the present invention is a powder coating
composition that preferably does not include a liquid carrier
(although it may include trace amounts of residual water or organic
solvent). The powder coating composition is preferably in the form
of a finely divided, free flowing powder. In preferred embodiments,
the powder composition is a thermosettable powder composition that
forms a thermoset coating when suitably cured. The discussion that
follows relates to powder coating embodiments of the present
invention.
[0211] The powder coating composition of the present invention may
be particularly useful in end uses in which a coated substrate is
intended to contact substances for consumption by humans or
intimate contact with humans. For example, the powder coating
compositions may be used to coat: surfaces of food or beverage
containers, cosmetic containers, or medicinal containers; surfaces
of valves and fittings, including surfaces intended for contact
with potable water or other consumable liquids; surfaces of pipes,
including internal surfaces of water pipes or other liquid
conveying pipes; and surfaces of tanks, including internal surfaces
of water tanks such as bolted steel tanks. For powder coatings that
will contact potable water, the cured powder coating composition
should preferably comply with ANSI/NSF standard 61. Some examples
of fittings include articles for use in liquid conveying systems
(e.g., for use in conveying potable water) such as connectors
(e.g., threaded or flanged connectors), elbows, flow splitters
(e.g., T-fittings, etc.), backflow preventers, pipe end caps, and
the like.
[0212] The powder coating composition preferably includes at least
a film-forming amount of the polymer of the present invention,
which in preferred embodiments is a polyether polymer having
segments of Formula (I). In order to facilitate stability of the
powder coating composition during storage prior to use, a polymer
of the present invention is preferably selected that has a Tg of at
least about 40.degree. C., more preferably at least about
50.degree. C., and even more preferably at least about 60.degree.
C. The powder coating composition preferably includes at least
about 50 wt-%, more preferably at least 70 wt-%, and even more
preferably at least 90 wt-% of the polymer of the present
invention, based on total resin solids.
[0213] Powder coating compositions typically utilize binder
polymers having a different molecular weight (typically a lower
molecular weight) than those of liquid packaging coating
compositions for use on metal food or beverage cans. When used in
powder coating compositions, the polymer of the present invention
preferably has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of at least
about 1,000, more preferably at least about 1,200, and even more
preferably at least about 1,500. In such applications, the polymer
of the present invention preferably has an Mn of less than about
6,000, more preferably less than about 5,000, and even more
preferably less than about 4,000.
[0214] The powder coating composition preferably includes at least
one base powder that includes the polymer of the present invention.
The base powder may further include one or more optional
ingredients, which may include any suitable ingredients disclosed
herein. The base powder preferably includes the polymer of the
present invention as a major component on a weight basis, and more
preferably includes at least 50 wt-% of the polymer. In some
embodiments, the polymer of the present invention comprises all or
substantially all of the base powder.
[0215] The particles of the base powder may be of any suitable
size. Preferably, the particles of the base powder exhibit a
particle size diameter of from about 1 micron to about 200 microns,
more preferably from about 10 to about 150 microns.
[0216] The base powder may exhibit any suitable distribution of
particle sizes. In some embodiments, the median particle size of
the base powder is preferably at least about 20 microns, more
preferably at least about 30 microns, and even more preferably at
least about 40 microns. In some embodiments, the median particle
size is preferably less than about 150 microns, more preferably
less than about 100 microns, and even more preferably less than
about 60 microns. The median particle sizes referenced in this
paragraph are median diameter particle sizes expressed on a volume
basis, which may be determined, for example, via laser
diffraction.
[0217] Powder compositions of the present invention may also
contain one or more other optional ingredients. The optional
ingredients preferably do not adversely affect the powder
compositions or articles formed therefrom. Such optional
ingredients may be included, for example, to enhance aesthetics; to
facilitate manufacturing, processing, and/or handling of powder
compositions or articles formed therefrom; and/or to further
improve a particular property of powder compositions or articles
formed therefrom. Each optional ingredient is preferably included
in a sufficient amount to serve its intended purpose, but not in
such an amount to adversely affect a powder composition or a cured
coating resulting therefrom. The one or more optional ingredients
may be present in a same or different particle than the polymer of
the present invention, or a combination thereof. In preferred
embodiments, one or more optional ingredients are present in the
particles of the base powder along with the polymer of the present
invention. If present in particles other than those of the base
powder, the particles of the optional ingredient(s) preferably have
a particle size in the general range of the particles sizes of the
base powder.
[0218] The powder composition preferably includes one or more
optional curing agents (e.g., crosslinkers). Suitable curing agents
may include phenolic crosslinkers, preferably BPA-free phenolic
crosslinkers; dicyandiamide, which may be optionally substituted;
carboxyl-functional compounds such as, e.g., carboxyl-functional
polyester resins or carboxyl-functional acrylic resins; and
combinations thereof. The powder composition may include any
suitable amount of the one or more crosslinkers. In some
embodiments, crosslinker is present in the powder composition in an
amount of up to about 15 wt-%, preferably up to about 10 wt-%, and
more preferably up to about 5 wt-%, based on the total weight of
the powder coating composition. If used, crosslinker is preferably
present in an amount of at least about 0.1 wt-%, more preferably at
least about 0.5 wt-%, and even more preferably at least about 1 wt
%, based on the total weight of the powder coating composition.
[0219] An optional cure accelerator may be present in the powder
coating composition to facilitate cure. When used, the powder
coating composition typically includes from about 0.1 wt-% to about
3 wt-% of one or more cure accelerators. 2-methylimidazole is an
example of a preferred cure accelerator. Other suitable cure
accelerators may include imidazoles, phosphonium salts, tertiary
amines, quaternary ammonium salts, anhydrides, polyamides,
aliphatic amines, epoxy resin-amine adducts, and combinations
thereof.
[0220] The powder coating composition may optionally include one or
more flow control agents to improve the flow, wetting, and/or
leveling properties of the cured film. If used, flow control agents
are typically present in an amount of about 0.01 wt-% to about 5
wt-%, more typically from about 0.2 wt-% to about 2 wt-%, based on
the total weight of the powder coating composition. Examples of
suitable flow control agents include polyacrylates such as
poly(2-ethylhexyl acrylate) and various co-polymers of 2-ethylhexyl
acrylate.
[0221] The powder coating composition may optionally include one or
more fluidizing agents to facilitate the preparation of a
free-flowing powder composition. If used, fluidizing agent is
typically present in an amount of about 0.01 wt-% to about 5 wt-%,
more typically from about 0.05 wt-% to about 0.5 wt-%, based on the
total weight of the powder coating composition. Suitable fluidizing
agents include, for example, fumed silicas of a suitable particle
size. Such fluidizing agents may preferably be added after the melt
blending process, such as to the extruded flake before or after
grinding.
[0222] Inorganic filler and/or colored pigment may optionally be
included in the powder coating compositions. Examples of suitable
such materials may include calcium silicates such as, e.g.,
wollastonite; barium sulfate; calcium carbonate; mica; talc;
silica; iron oxide; titanium dioxide; carbon black;
phthalocyanines; chromium oxide; and combinations thereof.
[0223] The powder coating compositions can be prepared via any
suitable methods. In one embodiment, some or all of the ingredients
are melt-blended together, which may be accomplished, for example,
using conventional single-screw or twin-screw extruders. The
temperature of the melt-blending step is preferably controlled to
avoid any appreciable cross-linking Typically, a melt-blending
temperature is selected such that the temperature of the molten
blend does not exceed about 100.degree. C. to about 150.degree. C.
The ingredients may optionally be pre-mixed prior to melt blending.
After melt blending and cooling, the resulting blend, which is
typically an extrudate, can be processed into powder using
conventional milling techniques. The resulting milled powder can
optionally be sieved to remove particles falling outside the
desired particle size range. The powder can optionally be mixed
with one or more additional powders to form the finished powder
coating composition. For example, in some embodiments, the milled
powder is combined with fluidizing agent powder either before or
after optional sieving.
[0224] The powder coatings compositions can be applied to substrate
using any suitable method. Typically, the substrate is a metal
substrate (e.g., cast iron, steel, etc.), which may be bare metal
or may be optionally pretreated and/or primed. One suitable such
method is the electrostatic spray application of charged powder to
substrate. Alternatively, the substrate may be applied, for
example, by dipping the substrate in a fluidized powder bed. In a
preferred embodiment, the powder is applied to heated substrate
that has been heated to between 190.degree. C. and 240.degree. C.
Upon contacting the heated metal substrate, the powder melts,
reacts, and forms a continuous coating that is preferably smooth
and uniform. In another embodiment, the powder is applied to a near
ambient temperature substrate and the powder coated substrate is
then heated to a temperature sufficient to cause the powder to
melt, react, and form a continuous coating that is preferably
smooth and uniform.
[0225] The melting and curing (e.g., crosslinking) of the powder
composition may be performed in combined or discrete heating steps.
In presently preferred embodiments, a combined heating step is used
in which the powder coating composition is heated to a temperature
sufficient to both melt the powder and cure the resulting
continuous coating. The bake temperature and the duration of the
bake will vary depending upon a variety of factors, including, for
example, the end use. For purposes of curing the coating, the bake
temperature is typically at least about 150.degree. C., and more
typically at least about 200.degree. C. In general, a lower cure
temperature may be used if a longer cure time is employed. The cure
temperature typically will not exceed about 240.degree. C. The cure
time may range, for example, from about 30 seconds to about 30
minutes, depending upon the cure temperature and the end use.
[0226] The thickness of the cured powder coating will vary
depending upon the particular end use. However, typically the cured
powder coating will have an average coating thickness in the range
of about 25 to about 1,500 microns, and more typically about 50 to
about 500 microns. In some embodiments, an average coating
thickness in the range of about 125 to about 300 microns is
used.
Test Methods
Differential Scanning Calorimetry
[0227] Samples for differential scanning calorimetry ("DSC")
testing can be prepared by first applying the liquid resin
composition onto aluminum sheet panels. The panels are then baked
in a Fisher Isotemp electric oven for 20 minutes at 300.degree. F.
(149.degree. C.) to remove volatile materials. After cooling to
room temperature, the samples are scraped from the panels, weighed
into standard sample pans and analyzed using the standard DSC
heat-cool-heat method. The samples are equilibrated at -60.degree.
C., then heated at 20.degree. C. per minute to 200.degree. C.,
cooled to -60.degree. C., and then heated again at 20.degree. C.
per minute to 200.degree. C. Glass transitions are calculated from
the thermogram of the last heat cycle. The glass transition is
measured at the inflection point of the transition.
EXAMPLES
[0228] The following examples are offered to aid in understanding
of the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting
the scope thereof. Unless otherwise indicated, all parts and
percentages are by weight. The constructions cited were evaluated
by tests as follows:
Example 1
Synthesis of the diglycidyl ether of
4,4'-(1,4-Phenylenebis(propane-2,2-diyl))diphenol and a Polyether
Polymer Therefrom
[0229] 4,4'-(1,4-Phenylenebis(propane-2,2-diyl))diphenol (51.3
grams, 0.125 moles), epichlorohydrin (140 milliliters, 1.79 moles),
and 2-propanol (150 milliliters) is heated to 80.degree. C. in an
oil bath. Sodium hydroxide (12.5 grams, 0.313 moles) in water (20
milliliters) is added in portions over 5 minutes. The solution is
heated for 2 hours at 80.degree. C. The mixture is cooled to room
temperature, filtered, and concentrated on a rotary evaporator at a
temperature of about 30-40.degree. C. The remaining oil is mixed
with dichloromethane (50 milliliters) and heptane (100 milliliters)
and allowed to stir for 30 minutes at ambient temperature. The
salts are removed by filtration and the filtrate is concentrated on
a rotary evaporator at 30-40.degree. C. The remaining oil is dried
under high vacuum at ambient temperature until a constant weight is
obtained. The experiment is expected to generate the diglycidyl
ether of 4,4'-(1,4-Phenylenebis(propane-2,2-diyl))diphenol (34
grams, 60% yield). The epoxy value is expected to be about 0.44
equivalents per 100 grams.
[0230] To a 4-neck round-bottom flask equipped with a mechanical
stirrer, a nitrogen inlet to maintain a nitrogen blanket, a
water-cooled condenser, and a thermocouple connected to heating
control device and a heating mantle is added 30 parts of the
diglycidyl ether of
4,4'-(1,4-Phenylenebis(propane-2,2-diyl))diphenol, 20.7 parts of
4,4'-(1,4-Phenylenebis(propane-2,2-diyl))diphenol (or,
alternatively, a suitable amount of any other upgrade dihydric
phenol such as, e.g., hydroquinone), 0.05 parts polymerization
catalyst, and 2.66 parts methylisobutyl ketone. This mixture is
heated with stirring to 125.degree. C., allowed to exotherm, and is
then heated at 160.degree. C. for 3 hours until the epoxy value is
0.032 eq/100 g. At this point to the mixture is added 48 parts
cyclohexanone, while the mixture is cooled to 70.degree. C. The
batch is discharged affording a solvent-based polymer with a
nonvolatile content of 50% and an Epoxy value of 0.030 eq/100
grams.
[0231] A packaging coating composition may be formulated pursuant
to the methods and materials included herein using the resulting
polyether polymer.
[0232] This application incorporates by reference the disclosures
of each of the following: International Application No.
PCT/US2012/024191 filed on Feb. 7, 2012 and entitled "COATING
COMPOSITIONS FOR CONTAINERS AND OTHER ARTICLES AND METHODS OF
COATING"; International Application No. PCT/US2012/024193 filed on
Feb. 7, 2012 and entitled "COATING COMPOSITIONS FOR CONTAINERS AND
OTHER ARTICLES AND METHODS OF COATING"; U.S. application Ser. No.
13/570,632 entitled "COATING COMPOSITIONS FOR CONTAINERS AND OTHER
ARTICLES AND METHODS OF COATING" filed on Aug. 9, 2012; U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/570,743 "COATING COMPOSITIONS FOR
CONTAINERS AND OTHER ARTICLES AND METHODS OF USING SAME" filed on
Aug. 9, 2012; and the U.S. Provisional Application 61/681,394
entitled "COATING COMPOSITIONS FOR CONTAINERS AND OTHER ARTICLES
AND METHODS OF USING SAME" filed on Aug. 9, 2012.
[0233] The complete disclosure of all patents, patent applications,
and publications, and electronically available material cited
herein are incorporated by reference. The foregoing detailed
description and examples have been given for clarity of
understanding only. No unnecessary limitations are to be understood
therefrom. The invention is not limited to the exact details shown
and described, for variations obvious to one skilled in the art
will be included within the invention defined by the claims. The
invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be
practiced, in some embodiments, in the absence of any element which
is not specifically disclosed herein.
* * * * *
References