Abstract
EcoSynthetix introduced Ecosphere® biobased latex binder to the paper industry in 2006.
These binders demonstrated not only their performance with excellent binding strength but also their unique rheological & coating performance, enhanced coating structure, and optical properties to both wet and dry paper coatings. A mechanism for their unique behavior was proposed based on the understanding that these biolatex binders consist of deformable, water-swollen and internally crosslinked biopolymer nanoparticles.
The biobased nanoparticle latex is a technically competitive alternative binder system to petrochemical-based binders, such as XSB and SA latex binders. The characteristics of the biolatex binders and their successful application in paper and paperboard have been extensively discussed. When added to the paper coating color formulation, these products typically replace 25% to 50% of XSB and SA latex binders used in coating processes on a one-for-one parts-per-hundred basis.
This article will provide an overview of the EcoSynthetix product development capabilities and by way of example, review a case study of a new product innovation that involves a biolatex binder composition with novel functionality and improved performance. This new approach opens up the opportunity to go to higher petro-latex substitution rates in base and top coat formulations, especially in off-set applications. Performance and cost savings are to be expected in addition to a higher bio-content.
