Butyl Emulsions Offer New Options Adhesives Formulators
Aqueous emulsion technology is at the forefront of the waterborne adhesive industry. Manufacturers are looking for ways to reduce solvent usage and emissions with aqueous formulations, and additionally retain as many features and benefits of their solvent analogs as possible. This article focuses on the chemical and physical properties of aqueous elastomer emulsions. An outline of general uses including basic waterborne formulations will be covered, including a synopsis of physical properties these novel emulsions impart to formulated products. VOC-compliant emulsion technology and formulated products can and will change the standards for the adhesives industry.
In fact, Lord Corporation is the only provider of Aqualast BL-100 aqueous butyl elastomer emulsions in the world. The process starts with rendering the butyl polymer into a workable cement phase. Surfactants and additional stabilizers are used during the emulsification process; these are carried in the aqueous phase. During emulsification, the raw components are converted to submicron-size, homogeneous raw latex.