Development of polymer films and its application on leather surfaces

Ten different formulations are prepared with a urethane acrylate oligomer in combination with two monofunctional monomers (EHA with low Tg and NVP with a carboamide group) and a difunctional acrylate monomer (TPGDA) in the presence of a plasticizer. Polymer films are prepared with these formulated solutions under UV radiation. Their properties (gel, hardness, tensile characters, etc.) are determined. These solutions are coated on leather substrates and cured under UV radiation. The improvement of quality of leather is manifested through the enhancement of tensile strength and elongation of the coated leather. The coating also imparts high gloss on the leather surface as well as high wear resistance. It also protects the leather from the damage of weathering effect. The best formulation is determined to be the one containing NVP with a carboamide group and a plasticizer.