Biomimetic Coatings

Biomimetics is the science of mimicking nature to develop materials with novel properties. In this case we wish to mimic nature's ability to produce tough, hydrophobic materials from water soluble precursors to enable us to formulate effective and durable waterborne protective coatings.

The new polymers will draw lessons from nature to effect a transition from water-sensitivity to water resistance during the film drying process and provide the basis for a new type of water based paint suitable for initial coating and maintenance of wood and metal substrates. At PRA, with the aid of computer simulation studies, novel water-soluble polymers will be synthesised which, on evaporation of water, undergo a phase transformation similar to protein molecules where hydrophobic moieties, present in the polymer, form the matrix of the film.

Southampton University will develop crosslinking reactions, based on their knowledge of the insect and plant sclerotization processes, which will harden the water-sensitive domains within the polymer film and render them impermeable to water.

The systems developed by both partners will be combined to produce polymers for high performance waterbased coatings from water soluble precursors.

This project promises a highly innovative approach to produce zero VOC solvent systems without the water sensitivity and reductions in performance and durability experienced by the current generation of water based coatings.

Further Information

If you are interested in this, or any other project, please contact Richard Holman.