Polyfunctioanl Carbenes as UV Activated Cross-linkers for Radcure Coatings

The project will combine cutting edge materials chemistry based on highly reactive intermediates combined with sustainable resins and monomers to create a new coatings platform with the potential for all coating market sectors. This platform will use a unique curing chemistry and will enable, within the project consortium, the development of ink-jet printable inks for the graphic signage and food packaging market areas. Issues surrounding the H&S of components used in current UV-curable inkjet products will be addressed along with providing inkjet formulations having significantly improved environmental credentials. The use of sustainable materials as key components of the ink formulation, the optimisation of the reactive intermediate to allow waterbased formulations, the use of lower power radiation sources and the ability of the reactive intermediate to eliminate substrate pre-treatments (for adhesion) will all contribute to inkjet inks having lower environmental impact than is currently achievable. Success in the inkjet market will lead to further exploitation in the graphic arts market and more broadly in other UV-curable coating markets..