How to reduce CO2 footprint in wall paints?

Intercol is an experienced compounder of several water-based dispersions, we use several copolymers to compound unique formulations. While base polymers do offer the fundamental properties of an adhesive or coating, the formulation often creates a unique advantage for the applicator such as:

• Machines running at higher speeds, with fewer errors.
• New product development, like cellulose or fibre-based insulation solutions, e.g. plasters.
• New applications, like reinforced concrete, composite materials in construction

One of the devlopments is reduction of carbon footprint for interior and exterior wall paints. It is known that VAE polymers as a base in wall paints, provide better hiding performance in relation to many styrene acrylics, which are the common base binder of many wall paints. Thus, while VAE offering a better hiding power, one can reduce typical fillers and whiteners like TiO2 (Titanium dioxide). Titanium dioxide is known for its high carbon footprint (approx 3.5Kg CO2/Kg), while VAE dispersions (1,2) already save 20% CO2 footprint in relation to SA (1,5) according to this document:

Biobased UAE options.

• VAE polymers are made of the monomers VAM & Ethylene.
• VAM is made from acetic acid and ethylene.
• Acetic acid is already biobased available.
• Biobased ethanol and biobased methanol are technically possible to produce on large scale by biobased means (e.g. with crops, or with CO2 capture in reaction with H2).

Different copolymers and properties.

Styrene acrylate copolymer (SAC), vinyl acetate ethylene (VAE), polyvinyl acetate (PVAC), acrylics, and styrene butadiene (SB) are all different types of copolymers.

Styrene Acrylic copolymers

SAC is a thermoplastic copolymer that is used in a variety of applications such as adhesives, coatings, and paints. It is known for its excellent weatherability, water resistance, and adhesion properties

VAE, vinly acetate ethylene copolymers

VAE is a copolymer of vinyl acetate and ethylene. It is used in a variety of applications such as adhesives, coatings, and paints. VAE is known for its excellent adhesion, flexibility, and water resistance

PVAC homopolymer

PVAC is a thermoplastic copolymer that is used in a variety of applications such as adhesives, coatings, and paints. It is known for its excellent adhesion, flexibility, and water resistance.

Acrylics

Acrylics are a group of thermoplastic copolymers that are used in a variety of applications such as adhesives, coatings, and paints. They are known for their excellent weatherability, water resistance, and adhesion properties.

Styrene butadiene

SB is a synthetic rubber that is used in the production of tyres, footwear, and other products that require high elasticity and durability.

Which polymer to choose?

In summary, SAC, VAE, PVAC, acrylics, and SB are all copolymers that are used in various applications. SAC is a thermoplastic copolymer that is used in adhesives, coatings, and paints, while VAE and PVAC are thermoplastic copolymers that are also known for their excellent adhesion, flexibility, low VOC, and water resistance. Acrylics are a group of thermoplastic copolymers that are known for their excellent weatherability, water resistance, and adhesion properties. SB is a synthetic rubber that is used in the production of tyres, footwear, and other products that require high elasticity and durability.