Coating performances of copolymers from a novel palm oil‐based macromer and methyl methacrylate

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop hybrid copolymers through the copolymerisation of a novel low molecular weight oleic acid‐based macromer with methyl methacrylate (MMA), with the aim of combining the good properties of alkyd and acrylic binders.Design/methodology/approach – The macromer was synthesised from phthalic anhydride, oleic acid and glycerol. It was copolymerised with MMA using a free radical initiator. The ratio of the macromer and MMA was varied and the glass transition temperature, molecular weight, thermal stability, and film properties of the copolymers were characterised.Findings – Under similar conditions of temperature and reaction time, the lower macromer to MMA ratio has led to faster polymerisation rate, higher molecular weight and higher Tg of the copolymer. Generally, all the coatings showed excellent adhesion properties, while the coatings with the higher content of MMA exhibited better alkali and water resistance.Research limitations/implications – The macromer use...