Nonvolatile, Reactive Coalescent for Latex Paints - Recently, several fatty acid esters have shown promise as non-volatile coalescents in latex paints. Made primarily from sunflower and corn oils, esters of fatty acids are naturally-derived, non-hazardous and don't contribute to the release of harmful VOCs. These coalescents exploit the natural reactivity of their unsaturated fatty acid component. With current and pending regulations regarding VOC reduction, these esters give formulators an alternative to VOC-containing coalescing solvents without compromising performance.

Microcrystalline Waxes - Petroleum-based waxes are commonly classified as paraffin or microcrystalline waxes. Paraffin waxes have lower melting points and viscosities than microcrystalline waxes. Paraffins are straight chain hydorcarbons while microcrystalline waxes are higher in molecular weight and branched. We have synthesized sustainable replacements for microcrystalline waxes and petrolatum from vegetable oils. The properties of these new waxes can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the end user.