Protective Chemistry
Synthetic resins suspended in water provide moisture and grease resistance for high performance barrier boards. Applying an acrylic copolymer dispersion to a paperboard surface creates a flexible film that resists fat penetration and water vapor transmission. This material often contains a blend of methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate to balance hardness with flexibility.
It replaces traditional wax coatings in recyclable packaging applications.
Application Boundary
The chemical composition determines the resistance levels against specific oils and acids. While the acrylic copolymer dispersion provides excellent barrier properties, its performance relies on a continuous film free from pinholes or microscopic cracks. Heat sealing capability varies based on the monomer ratio used during synthesis.
Mechanical Operation
Coated substrates must withstand the physical stress of folding and scoring without the barrier layer fracturing at the creases. A well formulated acrylic copolymer dispersion maintains its integrity through the converting process by exhibiting high elongation and adhesion to the base fibres. If the coating is too brittle, the barrier fails at the corners of a folded carton.
Excessive tackiness in the dried film leads to blocking where sheets stick together in a stack or roll. Proper drying temperatures ensure the polymer particles coalesce into a uniform shield.