Speciality emulsifiers
Surface modification is core to Croda. Research and innovation continue to grow multiple surfactant technology platforms which have proven instrumental in the development of next generation binders and formulated products. We offer a wide range of speciality surfactants to solve formulation challenges.
Closely tied to our commitment to sustainability is a range of surfactants designed to enable the transition of coatings, adhesives, and inks from solventborne to waterborne.
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Explore our emulsifiersResin emulsification
Maxemul 7000 and Maxemul 8000 polymeric resin emulsifiers are used to stabilise alkyd and similar resins in water without significant modification to the polymer. These surfactants allow formulators to reach zero VOC, with similar dry film properties to traditional solvent based formulations.
Maxemul 9000 polymeric resin emulsifiers similarly enable the delivery of epoxy resins for industrial and protective coatings as well as structural adhesives in a zero VOC, low viscosity emulsion.
Synperonic block co-polymer emulsifiers may also be used formulate high performing waterborne epoxy emulsions. This versatile technology platforms also includes compatibilizers and antifoams.
LoVOCoat polymeric water-in-oil emulsifiers. allow a reduction in the levels of solvent required in solventborne coatings through the incorporation of water into the liquid medium, without affecting drying rates or dry film properties.
Sustainability case study Maxemul 9107
Switching to Maxemul 9107 to produce a waterborne epoxy transport coating, reduces VOC emissions by 48%.
Enough to avoid 32.5 tonnes of CO2 per cargo ship coated!
Watch this demonstration video
Emulsion polymerisation
Acrylic resin emulsions account for large portion of the binders used in waterborne coatings and adhesives. Surfactants are an essential ingredient, controlling particle size and latex stability during production, storage, application of the latex and during drying of the polymer. Conventional migratory surfactants can negatively affect dry film properties which increases moisture sensitivity, negatively affecting adhesion, blocking resistance and appearance of the dry film.
To improve performance of these systems, we have developed Maxemul 5000 and Maxemul 6000 reactive emulsifiers that are developed for emulsion polymerisation of acrylic, vinyl acetate, and styrene based binders. The permanent grafting of these Maxemul reactive surfactants lead to benefits including:
- Superior colloidal stability and reduced foaming
- Improved scrub resistance
- Increased water, stain, blocking and substrate protection
- Better adhesion and excellent gloss retention