The continuous evolution of environmental policy requires an innovation of formulation and application technology in the organic coatings industry. In this innovative effort, however, sustainability and improvement of film properties under the performance and decorative aspect must coexist. Therefore it is not possible to disregard the study of the chemistry and physics of formulations, of the physical and chemical characteristics of organic films, to move on to the study of new ligands, the study of new application techniques. To link formulation to performance it is necessary a deep understanding of coating behaviour based on the scientific  knowledge reported on literature. Recent advanced reports on the coatings for metal, wood, plastic, ceramic used in important productive sector (automotive, architecture, forniture) will be considered.

After attending the course, the students will be able to:

- analyze and understand the principles, and  the requirements of an organic coating by associating its living performance to the substances used in the formulation, mainly polymers, additives and pigments or extenders.

- to develop communication ability following the classroom presentations.

Topic 1: The new legal requirements and the requisites required for the organic coatings sector. The evolution of new technologies. The constituents of paint products: binders, solvents, dyes and pigments, additives

Topic 2. Industrial methods of production and methods of pollutant abatement (VOC, dangerous substances).

Topic 3: The chemistry and physics of conventional binders, of binders for high solid coatings and without organic solvent (powder). The binders for waterborne paints. Sol-gel technology.

Topic 4. Film formation. Thermal treatments and chemical and physical cross-linking. Radiation treatments (UV, EB). Emulsions: theory a and practice.

Topic 5. Relationship between crosslinking degree and performances. Method for evaluations. Different cases

Topic 6. Characterization of organic films: experimental methods and their theoretical fundamentals.

In addition to the recommended texts, educational material will be made available by the teacher.

Visit to industrial sites and in place discussion will be organized together to technician's classroom lessons

Students are required to know the basic principles of polymer chemistry.

The in itinere verification consists in the deepening of a scientific work available in the literature chosen by the teacher and related in the classroom.

The final examination is an oral discussion about the course topics, chosen by the examiner. A suitable communication ability is required to expose and report in a clear way the concepts acquired.

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