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POLYMERS Polymers are large molecules
composed of smaller units called monomers. Polymers generally
refer to any substance that is polymeric in nature. In a
polish (emulsion polymer, resin, wax) it usually refers
to the main film forming ingredient or emulsion polymer.
A copolymer is a jointure of two individual polymers. Polymers
account for 60-80% of the material in the dry film. In the
floor polish industry, polymers are generally acrylic in
composition.
POLYETHYLENE OR WAX EMULSIONS These are some other
important components of a floor polish. Synthetic and natural,
wax emulsions contribute scuff resistance and buffability
to a floor polish. They may account for 10-30% of the dried
film depending on the type of finish formula.
PLASTICIZERS Chemicals which allow the wet polish
film to convert into a touch, durable film while drying
at room temperature. There are two types of plasticizers:
permanent and fugitive. Fugitive plasticizers are referred
to as coalescents. Both types of plasticizers are required
in a balanced floor finish formula and have a significant
effect on the performance of a floor polish film. Permanent
plasticizers stay in the film for the life of the polish
while fugitive plasticizers volatilize during the drying
process thus controlling proper film formation. Plasticizers
also aid in leveling.
ALKALI SOLUBLE RESINS These resins promote leveling,
gloss enhancement, and by virtue of their alkali solubility,
removability (strippability).
DEFOAMERS Allows the finish to dry without the retention
of foam bubbles, which would present an unsightly appearance
to a dried film.
WETTING AGENTS Used in small quantities these chemicals
promote flow and leveling by reducing the surface tension
of the wet polish.
STABILIZERS Protects the finish during shipping and
storage from viscosity increase and destabilization caused
by high temperature or freezing. Stabilizers are usually
specific members of the surfactant family. Stabilizers aid
in shelf life stability
BIOCIDES Protect against the growth of bacteria,
fungi, and yeast. Biocides eliminate the formation of malodors,
slime, and coagulation in a floor finish. Spoiled polishes
generally can’t be salvaged and result in a complete loss.
OTHER INGREDIENTS On rare occasions, some polish
formulas can contain fragrances, urethane emulsions, dye,
optical brightness, and pH modifiers. These additions are
not common and are sometimes used to offset some downsides
of a given formula. . |
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