Coatings Research and Development Activities

Emulsions formulated with our latest VOMM, i.e., SoyAA-1, have been successfully formulated into low VOC, waterborne NHG coatings that are characterized by very low VOC content (< 15 g/L), fast drying rates, and meet military specifications MIL-PRF-24635C and MIL-PRF-24596A.  Additionally, the waterborne coatings intrinsically offer the advantages of ease of clean-up, reduced fire hazards, and low toxicity to Navy personnel.

VOMM-based latexes have also been formulated into waterborne nail polishes. Commercial nail polishes typically contain more than 60 weight percent solvents and are highly odoriferous. Increasing concerns over sensitivities to certain nail polish ingredients was the impetus for this work. For instance, toluene sulfonamide resin is a source of formaldehyde and is considered to be the main ingredient responsible for allergic reactions to nail polishes. The presence of phthalates is also a concern due to health risks such as birth defects. Moreover, the solvents used in nail polishes can cause headaches in some people. TRRG has developed a VOMM-based waterborne nail polish possessing minimal odor and low-to-zero VOCs while maintaining the desired gloss, flow and leveling, and drying properties.