HomeInnovationTechnologiesControlled Polymerization Technology

Controlled polymerization makes it possible to selectively control the arrangement of the monomer building blocks in polymers. Unlike classical free-radical polymerization, CPT no longer leaves this to chance. Instead, we can arrange the monomers in block, star-like or comb structures. This opens up previously unimaginable possibilities for structuring polymers: The parameters of individual substances can be defined precisely, and their functionality can be specified in detail.

What this means for the production of additives is that BYK is able to develop products that have precisely defined characteristics. Wetting and dispersing additives that stabilize the pigments in paints – and thus play an important role in the appearance of the paint film – are good examples of this. CPT permits significantly better control of the microstructure of these additives, which makes them better able to satisfy customers’ increasingly demanding requirements. In general, CPT allows us to optimize substance properties, thereby enabling the selective development of new applications.

Compatibilizers are like bridges

CPT’s potential can also be seen in the example of compatibilizers. These substances make it possible to mix different media, as the additive builds a sort of bridge between the polymer molecules of the two media. As a result, incompatible systems become compatible with one another. BYK has already applied for some of the first patents on such substances. And finally, CPT processes can also help further improve precursors and intermediate products, thereby eliminating the need to develop new substances from scratch. In this case, the properties of so-called macromonomers and prepolymers are selectively modified by means of new syntheses.

 

For further information on Controlled Polymerization Technology at BYK, please refer to our brochure “Controlled polymerization technologies – new ways to additives”.