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The very creation of PRIMACOR* copolymers was an innovative act, as Dow scientists developed an improved method to co-polymerize ethylene and acrylic acid. The result was a unique polymer structure with a greatly enhanced "molecular backbone" and side chains of acrylic acid.
Important changes occur when acrylic acid is randomly incorporated with ethylene. The carboxyl groups are free to form bonds and to interact with any polar substrate such as metals, glass, cellulosics, and polyamides. Carboxyl groups on adjacent chains can hydrogen bond with each other. This produces toughness far in excess of that of competitive polymers, even at relatively low molecular weights. Additionally, the polymer can be cross-linked through the backbone and the acid functionality, allowing further improvements in toughness.
The bulky carboxyl groups inhibit the ability of the polymer to crystallize. This improves optical clarity and reduces both melting and softening points.
Adhesion
Toughness and Flexibility
Processing Ease
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