Use of water-based carbonyl-functional polymers on a cross-linker-free highperformance leather finish
The present paper aims to study a new high-performance coating formulation while avoiding the use of cross-linkers. 
By using acrylic polymers with carbonyl functional groups, the negative environmental effects of the finishing process can be minimized. These new polymers can give very good physical properties without losing the inherent properties 
of flexibility and elasticity needed in upholstery leather
Development of novel aqueous coatings which meet the requirements of ecology-conscious society: novel cross-linking system based on the carbonyl–hydrazide reaction and its applications
This paper reviews the results of our research on the reaction between a carbonyl group and a hydrazide group, especially the cross-linking, physical characteristics of the cross-linking system, and the reverse (decomposition) reaction. Discoveries in this investigation may lead to development of various novel products which would answer the requirements of today's coatings industry. 
 
The reaction, which proceeds rapidly in aqueous media at ambient temperature, can be used in one-component cross-linkable latex paints offering many advantages, such as good water and stain resistance, without detracting the workability. Applications of this reaction to aqueous two-component emulsion paint were also examined and the possibility for practical use was envisaged. 
 
Exploitation of the physical properties of dihydrazide compounds has resulted in the development of a novel curing system, namely, a “penetrative cross-linking process”. This process, where the paint films are cured by the penetration of a cross-linker, exploits three features of dihydrazide compounds to enable both easy penetration of the cross-linker and quick removal of excess cross-linker: low molecular weight, good water-solubility, and poor compatibility with paint resins. 
 
With this cross-linking reaction the reverse reaction can take place under specific conditions. This finding leads to the development of decomposable cross-linked coatings which are desirable for the recycling of coated substrates.
Development of polyamide curable modified epoxy novolac resins with improved adhesion and chemical resistance
Purpose – To prepare modified epoxy resins from resorcinol, cresol and phenol for improved adhesion and chemical resistance. To evaluate the properties of such modified epoxy resins.Design/methodology/approach – Epoxy novolac resins (ENRs) were synthesised by condensing epichlorohydrin with novolacs based on different types of substituted phenols for improving adhesion and chemical resistance. Various compositions were made by incorporating different proportions of polyamide resin. The chemical and adhesive strengths of the conventional epoxy and the modified epoxy resins were characterised.Findings – The modified ENR using substituted phenols showed significant enhancement of chemical and adhesive strengths over the conventional DGEBA resin. The modified ENR had an increased number of glycidyl groups (thus increased functionality) of resin, which was responsible for improved chemical and adhesive strengths over the conventional DGEBA resin.Research limitations/implications – The EPN resins used in the pr...