Interview: “Plastic coatings have evolved significantly”
Eugénie Charrière, global marketing and strategy director at Vencorex, highlights new developments, trends and challenges in plastic coatings. Interview by Kirsten Wrede
What are the most exciting applications for plastic coatings today?
Eugénie Charrière: In today’s dynamic landscape, plastic coatings have evolved significantly, particularly in critical end-use sectors like automotive and electronics. Within vehicle interiors and across consumer electronics, the demand for coatings that exhibit resilience against scratches, perspiration, sun-tan lotion, and offer enhanced aesthetic and tactile sensations is crucial. Vencorex, a global leader in aliphatic isocyanates and a fully-owned subsidiary of PPT Global Chemical, has developed solutions to meet these complex requirements, like a pioneering crosslinker tailored for 2K waterborne polyurethane matte finishes, delivering enhancements in both scratch and chemical resistance.
How prevalent have plastic coatings based on renewable raw materials become?
Charrière: As new bio-based and biodegradable plastics are becoming commercially available, plastic coatings from renewable sources are rapidly gaining traction. A considerable research effort is ongoing in the industry reflecting a heightened emphasis on the replacement of fossil-based materials.
In the shorter term, plastic manufacturers are looking for energy efficiency for the painting lines, driven by cost-effectiveness and CO2 emission reduction. We address this concern with a fast-drying crosslinker enabling stoving at lower temperatures of 2K polyurethane coatings.
What are the general challenges of coating plastic substrates, and how can they be overcome?
Charrière: Addressing the challenges inherent in coating plastic substrates requires a nuanced approach informed by industry expertise. Foremost among these challenges is the recycling of coated plastic components, a topic that has garnered significant attention within the research community. Notably, the European-founded project DECOAT leads the charge, pioneering smart additives for seamless integration into coating formulations. These additives facilitate controlled disbonding under specific trigger conditions, enhancing recycling efficacy. DECOAT and similar initiatives underscore the industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, leveraging advanced materials and cutting-edge technologies.
Reading tip: Coatings for Plastics by Guido Wilke and Jürgen Ortmeier
Explore the specialised field of coatings for plastics with this informative book. Learn about substrate preparation, adhesion promotion, polymer-specific formulations, and performance enhancement techniques. Gain insights into developing coatings that provide durability, aesthetics, and functionality for plastic substrates.
