Cross-linking agents: Acrylic copolymers get eco-friendly
The synthesis of a novel cross-linking agent viz, N,N- bis (2-hydroxyethyl) jatropha fatty amide (HEJFA) derived from jatropha (Pongamia pinnata) oil, has been employed as a cross-linking agent for acid functional acrylic copolymer resin (AAR). This article focusses on the method used to prepare higher Tg acrylic copolymer with higher percentage of maleic anhydride and consequently with a higher acid number. The cross-linking agent acted as flexibilising agent, which resulted in the lowering of Tg of the copolymer and consequently the resulting resin was brought in the sphere of acceptable and useful surface coating. To know more, read on…

About the Author:
Dr D A Raval, Dr Archana Shah and Dr Vismay M Patel
Dr D A Raval is ex-director, Sarvoday Kelavani Samaj, Yogidham, Rajkot
Dr Archana Shah is senior lecturer, N V P College of Pure and Applied Sciences, Gujarat.
Dr Vismay M Patel is research scientist, Emcure Pharmaceuticals USA Inc, New Jersey,
USA. Email: vismay2@gmail.com