Synthesis and Characterization of Waterborne Polyurethane Dispersions with Novel Compositions

The project begins with the synthesis of a series of waterborne polyurethane dispersions (PUDs), incorporating varying amounts of oligomeric diols with hydrophilic and hydrophobic blocks. These PUDs and their films will be systematically characterized using techniques such as FT-IR spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic light scattering (DLS), strain-stress tests, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
In the subsequent phase, the surface properties of the resulting films and coatings will be thoroughly investigated to evaluate their hydrophobic, oleophobic, and anti-fouling characteristics. This detailed analysis aims to establish structure-property relationships critical for performance optimization.