Amine-imino dialcohol neutralizing agents for low VOC aqueous coatings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional paint formulations face challenges in reducing volatile organic compounds (VOC) and odor, particularly with traditional neutralizing agents that are either highly volatile or have strong odors, which are undesirable in low-VOC paint applications.
Innovation Solution
The use of [(dimethylamino)alkyl]-imino-dialcohols as neutralizing agents in aqueous paint formulations, which help in pH adjustment and pigment dispersion, thereby reducing VOC levels and odor while maintaining effective paint properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional neutralizing agents (such as ammonia or conventional amines) are used in paint formulations, then effective pH adjustment and pigment dispersion are achieved, but high VOC content and strong odors result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the chemical structure of neutralizing agents from conventional high-VOC amines to low-VOC amine-imino dialcohols. Specifically, the invention uses compounds with the formula (CH3)2N-(CH2)x-NH-C(R2)2-OH where x=2-4, which maintain the necessary basicity for pH adjustment (pKb values indicating effective neutralizing capability) while dramatically reducing volatility and odor. This structural parameter change allows the same functional role (pH adjustment and pigment dispersion) to be fulfilled with substantially lower harmful emissions.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If low volatile compound neutralizing agents are used, then VOC levels are reduced, but pigment dispersion effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The amine-imino dialcohol compounds described in the patent exhibit multi-functionality, serving simultaneously as neutralizing agents for pH adjustment and as dispersants for pigment particles. The molecular structure contains both basic amine groups for pH control and hydrophilic-hydrophobic characteristics for pigment surface interaction and dispersion stabilization. This dual functionality ensures that reducing VOC content through low-volatility compounds does not compromise pigment dispersion effectiveness, as the same compound performs both critical functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs composite molecular结构设计, combining dimethylamino group, alkylene chain, imino group, and dialcohol moiety into a single integrated molecule. This composite structure synergistically provides the basicity needed for neutralization, the steric and electronic properties for pigment surface interaction, and the solubility characteristics for aqueous dispersion stability. The composite nature of the dispersant/neutralizing agent ensures effective pigment wetting and suspension while maintaining low VOC levels.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional amines are used for pH adjustment, then neutralization is effective, but odor problems arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting compounds with specific molecular weight and volatility parameters. The amine-imino dialcohols have molecular weights and intermolecular interaction characteristics that result in vapor pressures at least 10 times lower than conventional neutralizing agents like ammonia or methylamine. This parameter change in volatility directly reduces odor emission while the basicity parameter (pKb) is maintained within the range necessary for effective neutralization of acrylic and vinyl acrylic polymer emulsions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The [(dimethylamino)alkyl]-imino-dialcohols effectively lower VOC content and odor in paint formulations, improving pigment dispersion and overall paint performance, making them suitable for low-VOC and low-odor applications.
Implementation Method 1
neutralizing the ionic groups in the prepolymer backbone
Implementation Method 2
aid in dispersing pigment and other solids
Implementation Method 3
the water, and then the trace, or coalescing, solvent, evaporate
Data Source
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AI summary
Paint, clear coat, stain, adhesive, or other aqueous formulations that contain at least one [(dimethylamino)alkyl]-imino-dialcohol and a alkyd emulsion, polymer latex or polyurethane dispersion binder. Also disclosed are methods for manufacture and use of these formulations. The [(dimethylamino)alkyl]-imino-dialcohols provide aqueous formulations having low odor and reduced volatile organic compounds (VOC). The [(dimethylamino)alkyl]-imino-dialcohols also aid in dispersing pigment and other solids so less co-dispersant is needed for aqueous paint or coating formulations.