POLYMERS Polymers are large molecules
composed of smaller units called monomers. Polymers generally
refer to any substance that is polymeric in nature. In
a polish (emulsion polymer, resin, wax) it usually refers
to the main film forming ingredient or emulsion polymer.
A copolymer is a jointure of two individual polymers.
Polymers account for 60-80% of the material in the dry
film. In the floor polish industry, polymers are generally
acrylic in composition.
POLYETHYLENE OR WAX EMULSIONS These are some other important
components of a floor polish. Synthetic and natural, wax
emulsions contribute scuff resistance and buffability
to a floor polish. They may account for 10-30% of the
dried film depending on the type of finish formula.
PLASTICIZERS Chemicals which allow the wet polish film
to convert into a touch, durable film while drying at
room temperature. There are two types of plasticizers:
permanent and fugitive. Fugitive plasticizers are referred
to as coalescents. Both types of plasticizers are required
in a balanced floor finish formula and have a significant
effect on the performance of a floor polish film. Permanent
plasticizers stay in the film for the life of the polish
while fugitive plasticizers volatilize during the drying
process thus controlling proper film formation. Plasticizers
also aid in leveling.
ALKALI SOLUBLE RESINS These resins promote leveling, gloss
enhancement, and by virtue of their alkali solubility,
removability (strippability).
DEFOAMERS Allows the finish to dry without the retention
of foam bubbles, which would present an unsightly appearance
to a dried film.
WETTING AGENTS Used in small quantities these chemicals
promote flow and leveling by reducing the surface tension
of the wet polish.
STABILIZERS Protects the finish during shipping and storage
from viscosity increase and destabilization caused by
high temperature or freezing. Stabilizers are usually
specific members of the surfactant family. Stabilizers
aid in shelf life stability
BIOCIDES Protect against the growth of bacteria, fungi,
and yeast. Biocides eliminate the formation of malodors,
slime, and coagulation in a floor finish. Spoiled polishes
generally can’t be salvaged and result in a complete loss.
OTHER INGREDIENTS On rare occasions, some polish formulas
can contain fragrances, urethane emulsions, dye, optical
brightness, and pH modifiers. These additions are not
common and are sometimes used to offset some downsides
of a given formula.
The
Janitech Companies
106 High Street
Cumberland, RI 02864
(Tel) 401-724-4300, (Fax) 401-724-4900
