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The role of oligomers in UV coatings

  Oligomer: Oligomer used in UV-curing coatings, also known as prepolymer. In the early years, it was translated as oligomer, with significant characteristics: small molecular weight, characteristic polymer groups, and high viscosity. It is the main body and skeleton of UV-curing coatings (many physical and chemical properties of the paint film). Usually, oligomers play a vital role in UV coatings, and their main functions are reflected in the following aspects:

  Film-forming agent: Oligomer is the base resin of UV coating, also known as prepolymer or oligomer, and is the film-forming agent of photocurable coating. It occupies a considerable proportion in UV coating system and determines the physical properties of the coating after curing, such as hardness, flexibility, wear resistance and adhesion.

  Chemical reaction: Under UV light, oligomers react with photoinitiators through free radical reactions to generate polymers, thereby achieving rapid curing of the coating. This reaction enables oligomers to play a key cross-linking role in UV coatings, transforming liquid coatings into hard solid coatings.

  Physical property adjustment: Oligomers have a small molecular weight but characteristic polymer groups and a large viscosity, which enables them to adjust the rheology and processability of the coating in the formulation. In addition, the selection and ratio of oligomers can significantly affect the hardness, flexibility and impact resistance of the coating.

  Stability and durability: Different types of oligomers (such as epoxy acrylate, polyurethane acrylate, etc.) have different chemical stability and durability. For example, aliphatic polyurethane acrylate oligomers have excellent yellowing resistance, while aromatic polyurethane acrylate oligomers are prone to yellowing.

  Wide range of applications: Oligomers are widely used in UV coatings, including but not limited to 3D printing inks, soft-touch coatings, hydrophobic coatings for electronic products, roof and floor coatings, etc. These applications demonstrate the versatility and importance of oligomers in different fields.