C.O.A.T.
Clean Optimized Architectural Treatment
Architectural Paint Additive
Problem Statement
Architectural latex paints rely on coalescent solvents (Texanol, glycol ethers) to enable film formation below the polymer's glass transition temperature. These VOC-emitting coalescents contribute to indoor air pollution and smog formation, with regulatory VOC limits tightening globally. A bio-based coalescent or crosslinking additive using naturally-derived compounds could enable film formation while meeting zero-VOC targets.
Market Size
$3.8B
Regulatory Drivers
EU Directive 2004/42/EC (VOC in decorative paints, <30 g/L for interior matte); EPA AIM Rule (40 CFR 59 Subpart D); California SCAQMD Rule 1113 (<50 g/L); China GB 18582-2020 interior wall paint VOC limits; Green Seal GS-11 paints and coatings; LEED v4 low-emitting materials credit EQc2
Enterprise Interest
No enterprise interest recorded yet. Companies can indicate their volume and urgency to help guide research priorities.
Success Criteria
Reduce MFFT by ≥5°C vs. additive-free control, achieve scrub resistance ≥200 cycles, total VOC ≤5 g/L per EPA Method 24, and chamber emissions meeting CDPH Standard Method v1.2 at 14 days
Equipment Needed
MFFT bar (temperature gradient), scrub resistance tester (Gardner washability), block resistance test setup, gloss meter (60° geometry), opacity charts, drawdown bar applicators, GC-FID for VOC analysis (or outsource EPA Method 24), small environmental chamber for emissions testing, commercial latex paint base, standard coalescents for control
Existing References
Reference list will be published with protocols.
Protected Research Content
This section contains detailed protocols, proposed mechanisms, experiment designs, and safety information.
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