Biobased and Removable Pressure Sensitive Adhesives
Polymers and sustainability
Background
Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are widely used in labels and tapes, but achieving clean removability without loss of adhesion remains a challenge.
Conventional systems often rely on synthetic monomers and additives that hinder recycling.
There is a growing demand for bio-based, surfactant-free waterborne PSAs that offer strong adhesion in use and residue-free removal under neutral or mildly basic conditions.
Invention
This invention discloses a two-stage emulsion copolymerization process to produce a bio-based, surfactant-free waterborne PSA that combines excellent tack and peel performance with clean removability.
The system is fully water-based, solvent-free, uses biobased alkali soluble resins as polymeric stabilizer and the waterborne PSA is highly bio-derived, supporting sustainable adhesive manufacturing
Potential Applications
- Removable labels and packaging tapes compatible with industrial washing and recycling lines.
- Protective films for glass, metals, and plastics requiring clean removal.
- Reusable or temporary bonding materials in manufacturing and logistics
Key Benefits
- Residue-free removal under neutral or basic conditions.
- Strong adhesion and high cohesion during service.
- Waterborne, solvent-free formulation with up to 70 % bio-based content (e.g., 2-octyl acrylate, isobornyl methacrylate, isosorbide derivatives).
- Tunable tack and cohesion through the ratio of soft to hard monomers.
- Industrial scalability via a robust two-stage latex polymerization process.
IPR Status
- Patent numbers: EP4093781B1; US12428501B2; WO2021/249660A1
- Priority date: 10/06/2020
