METHOD FOR CREATING A JOINT

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for producing a joint, State of the art

[0002] Jointing materials or joint mortars are used to fill a wide variety of gaps, such as the joints between paving stones. Today, common paving stone surfaces are predominantly grouted with loose sand or cement-based mortar. While paving stone surfaces grouted with loose sand can respond exceptionally well to temperature changes and the associated joint widths, they can also be easily dislodged from the joints by sweeping or high-pressure cleaning. Likewise, heavy rainfall slowly dissolves the sand from the joints. Furthermore, insects can carry away loose sand and accumulate it elsewhere, which also shifts the sand concentration and prevents the paving stones from being firmly anchored.

[0003] Alternative cement-based mortars are very stable, but the use of mortar can lead to soiling that is difficult, if at all, to remove from the paving stone, or is expensive to clean. In addition, during periods of frost, the hardened joint mortar often cracks, requiring scheduled repair and maintenance work.

[0004] In the professional sector, two-component systems based on epoxy resin and hardener are common. For successful application, the mixing ratio of resin to hardener must be precisely maintained. A problem is that these formulations have a limited processing time. This makes these systems only partially suitable for DIY applications.

[0005] To overcome these disadvantages, single-component synthetic resin-based joint mortars have become established over the years. These synthetic resins fulfill several functions. Firstly, these mortars exhibit a plastic-elastic character even when cured and can therefore compensate for temperature fluctuations and the associated changes in joint width, ensuring a continuous surface. Secondly, the cured joint mortar is stable enough that cleaning work and even heavy rainfall do not cause the joint material to be dislodged. Another advantage of cured joint mortar is that it prevents weed growth in the joint.

[0006] The preferred method for curing one-component systems is oxidative crosslinking with atmospheric oxygen.

[0007] To ensure acceptable curing of the one-component grout mixture, the binders used are pre-mixed with special additives, so-called siccatives / drying agents. The properties and examples of siccatives are described in detail in patent DE 19714825 A1 and are specified in more detail below: Siccatives are ionogenic metal compounds that are added to unsaturated oils and binders to significantly shorten their drying time. The active components here are metallic cations, which induce oxidative crosslinking of the unsaturated compounds with atmospheric oxygen and significantly accelerate their curing compared to unsiccative formulations. Conventional siccatives are metal soaps, for example, fromIsooctanoic acid, naphthenic acid, linoleic fatty acid, ricinoleic fatty acid, or tall oil fatty acid are produced by direct reaction of metals and carboxylic acids or by precipitation and melting from the carboxylic acids and metal oxides or hydroxides. Common driers can be solid, water-soluble, or present as a water-dilutable emulsion, or simply dissolved in organic solvents. The standard types used for oxidative drying are based on the following metal cations: cobalt, manganese, iron, nickel, zirconium, cerium, titanium, and bismuth.

[0008] To further improve the moisture stability and adhesion of the mortar to the stone, silanes can be added. Typical addition amounts for this application range from 0.1 to 5% by weight based on the binder. In addition to significantly improving moisture stability, such silanes also have a positive effect on hardness development and act as an excellent adhesion promoter between the resin coating and inorganic surfaces.

[0009] Silanes suitable for this application include aminosilanes, epoxysilanes, mercaptosilanes, hydroxysilanes, methacrylsilanes, ureidosilanes, polysiloxanes, vinylsilanes and alkylsilanes.

[0010] EP 0211712 A1 describes a binder formulation based on polybutadiene oil, which is used with solvents such as xylene, toluene, or white spirit for the treatment of porous building materials. The polybutadiene fulfills almost all of the required properties, such as good alkali stability after curing while remaining elastic enough to respond to temperature fluctuations. However, due to the flammability of the solvents used, its commercial use is limited.

[0011] A further development is presented in patent DE 40 35 359 C1. The formulation listed in the patent aims at improved storage stability and processability through the use of aliphatic solvents such as turpentine oil.

[0012] DE 44 21 970 A1 also describes a joint mortar formulation based on polybutadiene oil, which contains quartz sand of varying grain sizes, resulting in a dense sphere packing within the joint. This produces a hard yet elastic joint mortar.

[0013] In "Weed Repellent and Jack of All Trades," Adhesives, the adhesives magazine from Evonik Industries, dated January 31, 2013, the use of a liquid polybutadiene-based mortar (Polyvest 110) as a joint mortar is described.

[0014] DE 1 242 573 A1 describes a specific process for encapsulating granules containing a water-soluble substance, particularly fertilizers, for the delayed release of the active ingredients. In this example, a copolymer of dicyclopentadiene and linseed oil in mineral spirits is used as the coating agent.

[0015] US 5,288,805 and US 5,693,715 describe a copolymer of linseed oil and dicyclopentadiene used in coating compositions.

[0016] Typically, the oxidatively drying binder is mixed with a granular substance and marketed as a ready-mixed product. To prevent premature oxidative drying in the packaging, the material is vacuum-packed, thus preventing the ingress of atmospheric oxygen. This provides a well-storable, air-curing joint compound.

[0017] However, polybutadiene oil-based binder formulations have a fundamental problem: These binders and the formulations made from them have a strong and very unpleasant odor. This odor stems primarily from the volatile organic solvents used and the high proportion of polybutadiene oil. The prior art describes the use of solvents, which, on the one hand, makes emissions and associated odor nuisance unavoidable. Furthermore, the potential flammability can pose a further safety risk.

[0018] The invention is based on the object of providing a composition capable of producing a joint compound with very good flexibility as well as excellent saponification and weather stability. Furthermore, the joint compound should have at least comparable strength to commercially available polybutadiene oil-based binder formulations. Summary of the invention

[0019] The present invention is defined in the claims. Description of the figure

[0020] Figure 1 shows the determined breaking strength after different periods of time and incubation in water as well as after subsequent drying for different binders. Detailed description of the invention

[0021] The method of the present invention utilizes a composition comprising a plurality of water-insoluble particles; and a copolymer obtainable by polymerizing dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid.

[0022] The water-insoluble particles are not particularly limited. Preference is given to particles whose solubility in water under standard conditions is at most about 50 mg / l, preferably at most about 45 mg / l, and more preferably at most about 40 mg / l. Standard conditions are understood to mean a temperature of 273.15 K and a pressure of 101.325 kPa.

[0023] The water-insoluble particles can be any water-insoluble particles commonly used for grouts. These include inorganic and organic water-insoluble particles, with inorganic water-insoluble particles being preferred.

[0024] The inorganic, water-insoluble particles can be water-insoluble metal or semi-metal compounds, with the metals and semi-metals being selected, for example, from groups 1 to 14 of the Periodic Table, in particular from alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, silicon, aluminum, or mixtures thereof. They are preferably selected from alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, iron, silicon, aluminum, or mixtures thereof. Alternatively, water-insoluble non-metallic elements such as graphite can be used.

[0025] The water-insoluble metal or semi-metal compounds are not particularly limited and may be selected, for example, from oxides, carbonates, hydroxides, silicates, aluminates, aluminosilicates, borates, sulfates, carbides, nitrides, nitrates, chlorides, phosphates or mixtures thereof.

[0026] Examples of inorganic water-insoluble particles include oxides or hydroxides of Si or Al (such as SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 and Al(OH) 3 ), glass (such as glass particles, glass spheres or hollow glass spheres), ceramics, oxides, phosphates, hydroxides or carbonates of alkali or alkaline earth metal compounds (such as CaO, MgO, MgCO 3 and CaCOs), phosphates, oxides, carbonates or hydroxides of transition metal compounds (such as titanium oxide, cerium oxide and zirconium oxide) and SiCN, SiBCN, silicon carbide or mixtures thereof.

[0027] The inorganic, water-insoluble particles can be of synthetic or natural origin. Examples of inorganic, water-insoluble particles of natural origin include sand, feldspar, clay, loam, talc, minerals of the mica group, kaolin, silica, chalk, dolomite, barite, or mixtures thereof. The water-insoluble inorganic particles are preferably sand and feldspar, more preferably sand, and especially preferably quartz sand.

[0028] The water-insoluble particles can be organic, water-insoluble particles. These include, for example, wood flour, pulp, textile fibers, fabric shreds, cork, wheat chaff, carbon fibers, polymer particles, and mixtures thereof. The polymers can be, for example, homopolymers or copolymers (e.g., polyolefins, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, fluorinated polyolefins such as polytetrafluoroethylene, methacrylates such as PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), polyamides such as PA6.6, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethanes, or polybutadiene-based polymers such as ABS).

[0029] The water-insoluble particles can have any conventional shape. Preferably, the water-insoluble particles are not spherical in order to increase the strength of the joint. Irregular shapes are preferred. Alternatively, the water-insoluble particles can be in fiber form.

[0030] The size of the water-insoluble particles is not particularly limited. The water-insoluble particles preferably have an average particle diameter of about 1 to about 5000 µm, particularly preferably about 10 to about 2000 µm. The average particle diameter can be determined by sieve analysis according to DIN 66165.

[0031] The composition consists of a plurality of water-insoluble particles and a binder. For the purposes of the invention, all components of the composition other than the plurality of water-insoluble particles are referred to as "binder." The composition preferably contains about 80 parts by weight to 99 parts by weight of water-insoluble particles, more preferably about 85 parts by weight to 98 parts by weight of water-insoluble particles, and even more preferably about 87 parts by weight to 98 parts by weight of water-insoluble particles, based on 100 parts by weight of binder.

[0032] The copolymer obtainable by polymerizing dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid comprises at least one unit derived from dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and at least one unit derived from an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid.

[0033] "Dicyclopentadiene" (DCPD) refers to the dimer of cyclopentadiene. DCPD (IUPAC: tricyclo[5.2.1.0 2,6< ]deca-3,8-diene) can be converted into cyclopentadiene (IUPAC: cyclopenta-1,3-diene) by thermal retro-Diels-Alder reaction by heating above 150 °C. In this application, "dicyclopentadiene" or "DCPD" refers to both the dimer tricyclo[5.2.1.0 2,6< ]deca-3,8-diene and the monomer cyclopenta-1,3-diene. Dicyclopentadiene is preferred.

[0034] Furthermore, DCPD can optionally be functionalized. Possible functional groups include organic and inorganic groups.

[0035] The esters of an unsaturated fatty acid are not particularly limited. They can preferably be derived from polyhydric alcohols, more preferably from dihydric alcohols (such as ethylene glycol, butanediol, pentanediol, hexanediol, heptanediol, neopentyl glycol, diethylene glycol, and / or triethyl glycol), trihydric alcohols (such as glycerol, trimethylolethane, and / or trimethylolpropane), tetrahydric alcohols (such as pentaerythritol), or hexahydric alcohols (such as dipentaerythritol), or mixtures thereof. Particularly preferably, the esters of an unsaturated fatty acid can be derived from glycerol. Preferably, the esters of an unsaturated fatty acid derived from glycerol can be triglycerides of an unsaturated fatty acid.

[0036] "Triglyceride" refers to triple esters of the trivalent alcohol glycerol with an organic carboxylic acid. The organic carboxylic acids can be identical or different. Thus, triglycerides can contain three identical or different ester groups.

[0037] The organic carboxylic acids can be a fatty acid. A fatty acid is an aliphatic monocarboxylic acid having about 4 to about 36 carbon atoms, preferably about 8 to about 24 carbon atoms, more preferably about 12 to about 20 carbon atoms. The fatty acids can be straight-chain or branched, preferably straight-chain.

[0038] The fatty acids can be saturated or unsaturated. According to the present invention, at least one of the organic carboxylic acids is an unsaturated fatty acid. The unsaturated fatty acid can have one or more unsaturated bonds, for example, one to six unsaturated bonds.

[0039] Possible unsaturated fatty acids are oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitoleic acid, gadoleic acid, eleostearic acid, oxoeleostearic acid, erucic acid, gonadoic acid, nervonic acid, ricinoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, stearidonic acid, and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the unsaturated fatty acid is selected from oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0040] Possible saturated fatty acids are palmitic acid, stearic acid, myristic acid, eicosanoic acid, behenic acid, and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the saturated fatty acid is selected from palmitic acid, stearic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0041] The fatty acids can be used in the form of a natural mixture of fatty acids. The preferred natural mixture of fatty acids is tall oil.

[0042] The ester can preferably be used in the form of a natural oil. Natural oils are oils that can be obtained from plants or animals such as fish. This is particularly preferred because these compounds are obtained from renewable raw materials and are therefore particularly sustainable and environmentally friendly.

[0043] Preferred vegetable oils are selected from soybean oil, linseed oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, rapeseed oil, tung oil, oiticica oil, castor oil, cottonseed oil, corn oil, safflower oil, wood oil, rapeseed oil, perilla oil, poppy seed oil, castor oil, sesame oil, wheat germ oil, peanut oil, hemp oil, grape seed oil, walnut oil, linseed oil, blackcurrant seed oil, perilla seed oil, rosehip oil, and mixtures thereof. Preferred are linseed oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, rapeseed oil, tung oil, oiticica oil, castor oil, and mixtures thereof. More preferred are linseed oil, soybean oil, and mixtures thereof. The vegetable oil is particularly preferred. Soybean oil is a vegetable oil obtained from the soybean (Glycine max). Soybean oil is a mixture of triglycerides of fatty acids, including oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. Typically, oleic acid is present in a proportion of about 17 to 31% by weight, linoleic acid in a proportion of about 48 to 59% by weight, and linolenic acid in a proportion of about 2 to 11% by weight.-%, palmitic acid in a proportion of about 2 to 11 wt.% and stearic acid in a proportion of about 2 to 7 wt.%. Linseed oil is a vegetable oil obtained from linseed, the ripe seeds of linseed (Linum usitatissimum). Linseed oil is a mixture of triglycerides of fatty acids, where the fatty acids include oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid and stearic acid. Oleic acid is present in a proportion of about 10 wt.% to about 22 wt.%, linoleic acid in a proportion of about 12 wt.% to about 18 wt.%, linolenic acid in a proportion of about 56 wt.% to about 71 wt.%, palmitic acid in a proportion of about 4 wt.% to about 6 wt.% and stearic acid in a proportion of about 2 wt.% to about 3 wt.%.

[0044] Preferred fish oils are herring oil, menhaden oil, cod oil, whale oil or mixtures thereof.

[0045] More preferably, the natural oil is selected from soybean oil, linseed oil, tung oil, fish oil, and mixtures thereof. Even more preferred is soybean oil.

[0046] In general, natural oils can be characterized by their double bond content. This can be determined quantitatively using the iodine value. The iodine value is a measure of the amount of iodine in grams that can formally be added to 100 g of oil. A higher iodine value corresponds to a higher proportion of double bonds. The proportion of double bonds is related to the drying behavior of the oils. Oils with a higher iodine value exhibit faster drying behavior in the presence of atmospheric oxygen. Drying oils have an iodine number of about 170 or more, semi-drying oils from about 100 to about 170, and non-drying oils from 0 to about 100. The preferred vegetable or fish oils are semi-drying and drying oils having an iodine number in the range of about 100 to about 400, preferably about 100 to about 300, more preferably about 110 to about 250, even more preferably about 140 to about 220.The iodine number is determined according to NF EN ISO 3961; AFNOR NFT60-203.

[0047] The copolymer is obtainable by the polymerization of dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and the ester of an unsaturated fatty acid. The polymerization can be carried out under any conditions suitable for the polymerization. In one embodiment, for example, a Diels-Alder reaction can be carried out between dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and the ester of an unsaturated fatty acid. This reaction can be carried out, for example, at a temperature of about 200°C to about 290°C and a pressure of about 0.05 MPa to about 1.00 MPa.

[0048] Although we do not wish to be limited by theory, it is believed that a retro-Diels-Alder reaction of dicyclopentadiene to cyclopentadiene occurs in an initial step. It is proposed that, in the further course of the reaction, cyclopentadiene reacts with double bonds present in the ester of an unsaturated fatty acid to form a Diels-Alder reaction product, as shown in the following scheme. In the scheme, R denotes a residue derived from a saturated or unsaturated fatty acid.

[0049] The values ​​of n and m are not particularly limited and depend on the unsaturated fatty acid used.

[0050] Under the reaction conditions described above, further reactions can occur, such as rearrangement reactions, including cis-trans isomerization, or rearrangement reactions of non-conjugated dienes to conjugated dienes. These conjugated dienes can, in turn, participate in further intra- and intermolecular crosslinking reactions, thereby forming higher molecular weight polymerization products. Chain formation based on several cyclopentadiene units reacting with each other is also assumed.

[0051] The copolymer obtainable by the polymerization of dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and the ester of an unsaturated fatty acid is a random copolymer. The copolymer has a weight-average molecular weight of about 5,000 to about 1,000,000, preferably from about 10,000 to about 500,000, more preferably from about 30,000 to about 60,000. The copolymer has a number-average molecular weight of about 1,000 to about 3,000, preferably from about 1,200 to about 2,500, more preferably from about 1,400 to about 2,000. The measurements were performed by GPC.

[0052] The ratio of the ester of an unsaturated fatty acid and dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) or cyclopentadiene (CPD) is not particularly limited according to the present invention and can be, for example, from about 40:60 to about 90:10 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range from about 50:50 to about 80:20 wt.%.

[0053] The proportion of the copolymer obtainable by polymerizing dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, based on the composition, is not particularly limited according to the invention. The proportion of the copolymer is preferably from about 25 parts by weight to about 100 parts by weight, more preferably from about 30 parts by weight to about 90 parts by weight, particularly preferably from about 35 parts by weight to about 90 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of binder.

[0054] Preferably, the dynamic viscosity of the copolymer can be from about 5000 mPa s to about 100000 mPa s, more preferably from about 10000 mPa s to about 90000 mPa s, most preferably from about 20000 mPa s to about 70000 mPa s (measured by Brookfield CAP 2000 viscometer, 75°C, spindle 6, 100 rpm, 90 seconds according to ISO 2884).

[0055] In addition to the majority of water-insoluble particles and the copolymer, the composition may contain other components.

[0056] The composition may optionally contain an ester, preferably a triglyceride, of an unsaturated fatty acid to control viscosity. The unsaturated fatty acid ester is not particularly limited, and reference is made to the above discussion of the unsaturated fatty acid ester that can be used in the preparation of the copolymer.

[0057] Preferably, the ester of an unsaturated fatty acid is characterized by an iodine number of about 20 to about 250, preferably from about 150 to about 200, and further by a viscosity of about 50 to about 2000 mPa·s, preferably from about 50 to about 1000 mPa·s.

[0058] Linseed oil, tung oil or soybean oil are particularly preferred as esters of an unsaturated fatty acid.

[0059] The proportion of the unsaturated fatty acid ester is not particularly limited. Preferably, the proportion of the unsaturated fatty acid ester can be from about 0 parts by weight to about 70 parts by weight, more preferably from about 0 parts by weight to about 65 parts by weight, particularly preferably from about 0 parts by weight to about 60 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of binder.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, the viscosity can be controlled by adding polybutadiene oil. Polybutadiene oil refers to 1,4-polybutadiene which is liquid under normal conditions and whose number-average molecular weight is, for example, in a range from 1500 to 3000 g mol -1. The proportion of polybutadiene oil based on the total amount of the composition is not particularly limited. Preferably, it can be in the range from about 0 parts by weight to about 70 parts by weight. More preferably, the proportion can be in a range from about 0 parts by weight to about 65 parts by weight, particularly preferably in the range from about 0 parts by weight to about 60 parts by weight, in each case based on 100 parts by weight of binder.

[0061] The composition may optionally contain a siccative to accelerate solidification. Conventional siccatives such as metal salts of fatty acids, where the fatty acids may have from about 5 to about 22 carbon atoms, such as isooctanoic acid, naphthenic acid, linoleic fatty acid, ricinoleic fatty acid, or tall oil fatty acid, based on the metal cations cobalt, manganese, iron, nickel, zirconium, cerium, titanium, or bismuth, can be used in the compositions. Preferred siccatives are salts of 2-ethylhexanoic acid ("octoates") or naphthenic acid, such as Co-octoate, Mn-octoate, Zr-octoate, Co-naphthenate, Mn-naphthenate, or Zr-naphthenate. Particular preference is given to Co-octoate or Mn-octoate, especially Co-octoate. Also preferred is the use of an iron complex, which is commercially available as Borchi® Oxy from Borchers GmbH, Langenfeld. Mixtures of siccatives can also be used.

[0062] The proportion of the siccative is not particularly limited. Preferably, the composition may contain from about 0 parts by weight to about 5 parts by weight, more preferably from about 0.5 parts by weight to about 4 parts by weight, and most preferably from about 0.7 parts by weight to about 3 parts by weight of siccative, based on 100 parts by weight of binder.

[0063] The composition may further contain a silane to increase strength. The type of silane is not particularly limited. The silane can preferably be an amino-, epoxy-, mercapto-, hydroxy-, (meth)acryl-, ureido-functionalized silane, vinylsilane, or alkylsilane. The silane can contain further hydrolyzable functional groups. These can be alkoxy, aryloxy, and / or acetoxy groups and / or polysiloxane groups. The silane can preferably be selected from the group of epoxy-functionalized silanes and vinylsilanes. More preferably, the silane can be selected from the group of alkoxy-containing epoxy-functionalized silanes or vinylsilanes. The silane can particularly preferably be the vinylsilane Dynasylan 6498 from Evonik. Dynasylan 6498 is a vinylsilane concentrate (oligomeric siloxane) containing vinyl and ethoxy groups.Preferred addition amounts based on 100 parts by weight of binder can be in the range from about 0 parts by weight to about 2 parts by weight, more preferably from about 0.1 parts by weight to about 1.5 parts by weight, particularly preferably from about 0.2 parts by weight to about 1 part by weight.

[0064] To reduce odor nuisance and environmental pollution, as well as to avoid the safety risk posed by potential flammability, the compositions preferably contain at most small amounts of solvent, for example, at most about 5 parts by weight, preferably at most about 2 parts by weight, more preferably at most about 0.5 parts by weight, even more preferably about 0 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of binder. Solvents can be understood as organic compounds with a boiling point of 200°C or less under standard conditions. These include, in particular, aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons (especially alkanes, alkenes, benzene, toluene, and xylene), ethers, ketones, aldehydes, alcohols, halogenated hydrocarbons, or gasolines. The amount of highly volatile solvents (VOC) can be determined using DIN EN ISO 11890-1 and 11890-2.

[0065] The composition may optionally contain pigments for coloring the composition. The type of pigment is not particularly limited; any conventional pigments can be used. Titanium dioxide, iron oxides, ultramarine blue, phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, or mixtures thereof can be used with preference. The proportion of pigments is not particularly limited; it can be from about 0 parts by weight to about 10 parts by weight, preferably from about 1 part by weight to about 8 parts by weight, and particularly preferably from about 2 parts by weight to about 6 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of binder.

[0066] The composition may optionally contain other conventional additives such as weed control agents, fungicides, or any other conventional additive or mixtures thereof.

[0067] The total amount of the optional components is not particularly limited. It can be from about 0 parts by weight to about 10 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of binder, preferably from about 0 parts by weight to about 5 parts by weight, particularly preferably from about 0 parts by weight to about 2 parts by weight.

[0068] The composition is used as a jointing material. According to the invention, the jointing material is used in a process for producing a joint in a surface covering, which comprises the following steps: (i) applying individual elements of a surface covering to a surface such that a gap is formed between the individual elements of the surface covering; (ii) optionally wetting the individual elements of the surface covering with water; (iii) introducing the composition into the gap between the individual elements of the surface covering; (iv) optionally rinsing the area of ​​the individual elements of the surface covering with water; and (v) curing the composition.

[0069] In the method according to the invention, individual elements of a surface covering are applied to a surface. The surface is not particularly limited and can be oriented horizontally or vertically or at any inclination, and can be located outdoors or indoors. Preferably, the surface can be a floor or a wall. The composition can preferably be used outdoors.

[0070] The individual elements of the surface covering can be made of all common materials. These include paving stones, natural stone, concrete elements, clinker bricks, pebbles, pebbles, tiles, wooden elements, or mixtures thereof.

[0071] The individual elements are applied to the surface next to one another, leaving a gap between them. The width of the gap, i.e., the distance between the individual elements, is not particularly limited. It can be, for example, from about 0.1 mm to about 150 mm, preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 60 mm, and particularly preferably from about 1 mm to about 10 mm.

[0072] Then, if necessary, water is applied to the individual elements of the surface coating in order to provide a hydrophilic surface and thus avoid contamination of the individual elements of the surface coating with the copolymer obtainable by polymerization of dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, or other optional components of the composition.

[0073] The composition is then introduced into the gap between the individual elements of the surface covering using methods customary in the art. For this purpose, the copolymer, obtainable by polymerizing dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, is first mixed with the majority of water-insoluble particles and the optional components. The mixing of the copolymer, obtainable by polymerizing dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, with the majority of water-insoluble particles can be carried out prior to introduction; alternatively, the mixing can be carried out beforehand, and the composition can be stored in an airtight container. Preferably, the mixing is carried out beforehand, and the composition can be stored in an airtight container.Typically, the copolymer, which is obtainable by polymerization of dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, and the optional ingredients are mixed and then the majority of water-insoluble particles are added.

[0074] Subsequently, if necessary, the area of ​​the individual elements of the surface covering is rinsed with water. This not only slurries the mixture of the copolymer, which is obtainable by polymerizing dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, with the majority of water-insoluble particles into the gap between the individual elements of the surface covering, but also removes residues of copolymer and other optional components of the composition from the surface of the individual elements of the surface covering.

[0075] After the optional rinsing, the composition cures under the influence of atmospheric oxygen. The resulting joints exhibit very good flexibility as well as excellent saponification and weather resistance. Furthermore, they possess comparable, and in some cases, higher, strengths than commercially available polybutadiene oil-based binder formulations.

[0076] By using natural oils as esters of an unsaturated fatty acid, the compositions can be produced from renewable raw materials. Furthermore, the aforementioned excellent performance properties can be achieved without the use of volatile organic solvents. Thus, the compositions make a significant contribution to sustainability and environmental and consumer protection.

[0077] The following examples illustrate the invention without limiting it. EXAMPLES Production example 1:Synthesis of a copolymer obtainable from dicyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid

[0078] 600 g of soybean oil and 400 g of DCPD were charged into a pressure reactor and purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was then heated to 275°C with stirring. The heating rate was selected to avoid a pressure buildup exceeding 6 bar. The reaction mixture was held at 275°C until a viscosity of 8000 mPa s was reached (Brookfield CAP 2000 viscometer according to ISO 2884, 75°C, spindle 6, 100 rpm, 90 sec). The reaction mixture was then cooled to 240°C and held at this temperature until a target viscosity of 50,000 mPa s was reached (Brookfield CAP 2000 viscometer according to ISO 2884, 75°C, spindle 6, 50 rpm, 90 sec).

[0079] The resulting copolymer can be used for further processing or formulation. For example, the DCPD copolymer can be blended with linseed oil and adjusted to a desired target viscosity, as explained in the following examples. Example 2: Preparation of a composition - Formulation 1

[0080] Forty parts by weight of DCPD copolymer from Example 1 were mixed with 60 parts by weight of linseed oil and homogenized while stirring. This mixture was then mixed with 1 wt.% Co-octoate (Co-octoate in aromatic-free white spirit D60 (25 to 50%), 12 wt.% Co) and also homogenized. Example 3: Preparation of a composition - Formulation 2

[0081] Forty parts by weight of DCPD copolymer from Example 1 were mixed with 59.8 parts by weight of linseed oil and homogenized with stirring. Subsequently, 0.2 wt.% Dynasylan 6498 was added and homogenized with stirring. This mixture was then mixed with 1 wt.% Co-octoate (Co-octoate in aromatic-free white spirit D60 (25 to 50%), 12 wt.% Co) and also homogenized. Example 4: Preparation of a composition - Formulation 3

[0082] 40 parts by weight of DCPD copolymer from Example 1 were mixed with 59 parts by weight of linseed oil and homogenized with stirring. Subsequently, 1 wt.% Dynasylan 6498 was added and homogenized with stirring. This mixture was then mixed with 1 wt.% Co-octoate (Co-octoate in aromatic-free white spirit D60 (25 to 50%), 12 wt.% Co) and also homogenized. Comparison example 5: Wood oil - formulation 4

[0083] As a first comparative example, commercially available wood oil / tung oil from Merck with a stated iodine value of >220 was tested. For this purpose, the pure wood oil / tung oil was mixed with 1 wt.% Co-octoate (Co-octoate in aromatic-free white spirit D60 (25 to 50%), 12 wt.% Co) and homogenized. Comparison example 6: Polyvest 110 Polybutadiene Oil - Formulation 5

[0084] As a second comparative example, commercially available polybutadiene oil Polyvest110 (PV110) from Evonik was tested. For this purpose, the pure polybutadiene oil was mixed with 1 wt.% Co-octoate (Co-octoate in aromatic-free white spirit D60 (25 to 50%), 12 wt.% Co) and homogenized.

[0085] To estimate the potential crosslinking density and thus the drying rate, the iodine number was determined according to NF EN ISO 3961; AFNOR NFT60-203. The tested formulations are summarized in Table 1, and the corresponding iodine number results are summarized in Table 2. Table 1: Formulations formulation Composition / wt.% remark Formulation 1 DCPD copolymer 40.0 parts by weight, according to the invention Linseed oil 60.0 parts by weight Formulation 2 DCPD copolymer 40.0 parts by weight, according to the invention Linseed oil 59.8 parts by weight, Silane 0.2% Formulation 3 DCPD copolymer 40.0 parts by weight, linseed oil 59.0 parts by weight, silane 1.0% according to the invention Formulation 4 Wood oil / tung oil 100.0% Comparison Formulation 5 PV110 100.0% Comparison Table 2: Determination of the iodine number for different binders formulation Iodine value (gl / 100 g) Formulation 1 250 ± 3 Formulation 2 250 ± 3 Formulation 3 250 ± 3 Formulation 4 >211 Formulation 5 444 ± 3 Production of the joint material and testing

[0086] Joint material was prepared by mixing 89.1 g of a formulation mentioned above with 0.9 g of Co octoate (12 wt% Co in white spirit D60) and 2910 g of quartz sand (H31, with an average grain size of -250 µm).

[0087] The mixture was mixed in a Hobart planetary mixer (Hobart GmbH, model: HSM10) at speed level 4 of 6 at 221 revolutions per minute for 2 minutes using a flat stirrer model B (Hobart GmbH). To produce the test specimens for determining hardness development, a resin-coated wooden mold with external dimensions of L = 498 mm, W = 62 mm, H = 312 mm and 16 internal loose molds were used to produce test specimens with dimensions of L = 22.36 mm, W = 22.36 mm, H = 171 mm. The joint mortar was poured into this mold, compacted, and stored in the mold for 24 hours at 18 to 30 °C and a humidity of 40 to 75%. The molds were then removed and the cores were allowed to mature in air for 24 hours. The determination of the flexural strength was carried out using a strength testing device (model PFG, +GF+) according to VdG leaflet P 72.

[0088] Two different test methods were used to test the strength, simulating different environmental influences and treatments to which the joint mortar is typically exposed during its life cycle. Test variant 1 simulates curing and crosslinking under dry conditions. Four test specimens were provided for this investigation, two test specimens per time interval, which served for duplicate determinations. First, the immediate strengths were measured, i.e. as soon as the 24-hour curing period was completed. The second test point was reached five days after curing. During this time, the test specimens were temporarily stored under the conditions already mentioned above. After the respective storage time had elapsed, the test specimens were broken using a strength testing device.

[0089] The second method simulates a wet / dry cycle. The focus was on testing the regenerative capacity, wet resistance, and final strength after leaching of the different joint mortars. For this test method, eight test specimens were provided, two test specimens per time interval, which were used for duplicate determinations. The test specimens were manufactured according to the procedures above. After demoulding and the 24-hour curing period, the first test point was measured. Afterwards, all remaining test specimens were immediately stored in demineralized water (1 liter). The container was selected so that all test specimens were stored horizontally in the water and were not exposed to any transverse forces. The test specimens were stored in the water at a temperature of 18 to 30 °C and for a period of six days. The test specimens were then carefully lifted out of the water and placed on cellulose paper.Two test specimens were then immediately tested for strength. The remaining test specimens were temporarily stored under the above-mentioned conditions. One day later, the next duplicate determination was performed. Four days later, i.e., five days after the water sampling, the final duplicate determination was performed. The results are shown in . Figure 1 shown.

[0090] Out of Figure 1and Table 3 shows that formulation 1 surprisingly achieves a comparable level of strength to the commercially available formulation 5 based on polybutadiene. This is surprising in that the iodine number and thus the number of double bonds are significantly lower in formulation 1 than in the case of formulation 5 based on polybutadiene. One might have assumed that the strength values ​​would be significantly lower due to the lower number of double bonds, as this reduces the possibilities for oxidative crosslinking. Furthermore, formulations 2 and 3 show that the strength can be significantly increased by adding silanes. It can also be seen that formulation 4, not according to the invention and based on wood oil / tung oil, has significantly poorer strength values, although the iodine number is comparable to formulation 1.

[0091] In the case of formulation 5, an unpleasant "musty" odor was detected, while in the case of formulations 1 to 3 according to the invention, a characteristic natural oil odor was detected. Table 3: Strengths (in N cm -2< ) of test specimens for different formulations 2 days drying 6 days wet 1 day drying 5 days drying Formulation 1 500 N cm -2 170 N cm -2 200 N cm -2 985 N cm -2 Formulation 2 600 N cm -2 250 N cm -2 310 N cm -2 1210 N cm -2 Formulation 3 800 N cm -2 350 N cm -2 410 N cm -2 1400 N cm -2 Formulation 4 120 N cm -2 0 N cm -2< 0 N cm -2< 0 N cm -2< Formulation 5 530 N cm -2 200 N cm -2 210 N cm -2 765 N cm -2

[0092] Table 3 describes the strengths obtained according to VdG Data Sheet P 72 after 2 days of oxidative drying at room temperature. The test specimens were then stored in deionized water for 6 days, and the wet strengths were determined immediately thereafter. The strengths were then re-examined after 1 and 5 days of dry storage at room temperature. Making a joint

[0093] Rectangular stone slabs measuring 20 cm x 10 cm were laid on a compacted, sand-covered surface at a distance of 1 to 2 cm and sprayed with water. Jointing material was prepared by mixing 89.1 g of formulation 1 with 0.9 g of Co octoate (12 wt% Co in white spirit D60) and 2910 g of quartz sand (H31, with an average grain size of -250 µm) and swept into the gap between the stone slabs. The stone slabs were then rinsed with water. The jointing material was allowed to cure overnight and was evaluated on the third day.

[0094] The joint material was solid, dimensionally stable, and exhibited good flank adhesion. After rain, the water drained quickly, and no waterlogging was evident. Even after one year of outdoor exposure, the substrate remained solid. Furthermore, no weed growth was observed between the treated joints. However, significant weed growth was visible in untreated areas.

Claims

1. A method for producing a joint in a surface covering: (i) applying individual elements of a surface covering to a surface so that a gap is formed between the individual elements of the surface covering; (ii) optionally wetting the individual elements of the surface covering with water; (iii) introducing a composition into the gap between the individual elements of the surface covering; (iv) optionally rinsing the area of the individual elements of the surface covering with water; and (v) curing the composition; wherein the composition comprises a plurality of water-insoluble particles; and a copolymer obtainable by polymerization of dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the water-insoluble particles are selected from sand, glass particles, glass beads, hollow glass beads, feldspar, clay, loam, talc, mica group minerals, kaolin, silica, chalk, dolomite, barite, wood flour, cellulose, textile fibers, fabric chips, cork, wheat chaff, polymer particles, ground polymers or mixtures thereof.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ester is used in the form of a natural oil.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the natural oil is selected from vegetable oils, preferably from soybean oil, linseed oil, cottonseed oil, corn oil, safflower oil, tung oil, wood oil, sunflower oil, oiticika oil, rapeseed oil, perilla oil, poppy seed oil, ricineen oil, ricinus oil, sesame oil, wheat germ oil, peanut oil, thistle oil, hemp oil, grapeseed oil, walnut oil, refined linseed oil, black currant seed oil, perilla seed oil, wild rose oil and mixtures thereof, more preferably is selected from soybean oil, linseed oil and mixtures thereof, even more preferably is soybean oil.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the composition further comprises an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid, wherein the ester preferably is in the form of a natural oil.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the composition further comprises a siccative, preferably selected from fatty acid salts of Co, Mn, Fe, Ni, Zr, Ce, Ti, Bi or mixtures thereof.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the composition further comprises a silane, preferably selected from alkoxy group-containing epoxy-functionalized silanes, aminosilanes or vinylsilanes.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the surface is present in an outdoor area or indoor area.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the individual elements of the surface covering are selected from paving stones, natural stones, concrete elements, clinkers, pebbles, field stones, tiles, wooden elements or mixtures thereof.

10. Use of a copolymer obtainable by polymerization of dicyclopentadiene or cyclopentadiene and an ester of an unsaturated fatty acid for joining.

11. The use according to claim 10, wherein the copolymer is mixed with a plurality of water-insoluble particles prior to joining.