Extending the pot life of polyurethane coatings using organic diones

Purpose This study aims to extend the pot life without altering the qualities and performance of the coating, which is important to increase when manufacturing polyurethane coatings. Design/methodology/approach An acrylic polyol from a mixture of different monomers of hydroxypropyl methacrylate, methacrylic acid, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and n-butyl methacrylate was prepared with different ratios of 2,4-pentanedione as a pot life extender. The reaction takes place in presence of di-tert-butyl peroxide as initiator with samples (T1–T7). The physical properties of prepared acrylic polyol were characterized. Then, coating polyurethane varnish was prepared from the prepared acrylic polyol with an aliphatic polyisocyanate in a 1:1 equivalent ratio of OH:NCO at room temperature, in presence of paint thinner (diluents/solvent) and dibutyltin dilaurate as a catalyst to give samples (T1C–T7C). This coating was evaluated via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, drying time, hardness and gloss, distinctness of image and reflected image quality. Findings The coating has a prolonged pot life while still maintaining the other qualities, thanks to the greater 2,4-pentanedione content. Originality/value It is desired to have a paint which has a satisfactory pot life, short curing time and reduces many drawbacks such as inefficient working and deterioration of the paint before application.