Determination of the Surface Energy for UV-Curable Easy Release Coatings

Emily B. Henry, Lipscomb University

Abstract: This presentation introduces an experimental design improving developmental efficiency of formulations which produce UV-curable coatings with easy release properties. The surface free energy of a coating is shown to be predictive of release behavior. The van Oss-Chaudhury-Good approach is applied to determine the surface free energy of coating components; Cassie’s equation harnesses this information into a predictive process based on coating composition. Coatings scientists can minimize time and material consumption to design release coatings.