Learning Pathways
Syllabus
Module 6: Cellulosic, Acrylic & Urethane Resins in Coatings
Cellulosic, Acrylic & Urethane Resins in Coatings is an intermediate-level module designed to expand learners’ understanding of three major resin families widely used across the coatings industry. Building on earlier modules that introduced resin fundamentals, this course focuses on the chemistry, structure, and functional behavior of cellulosic, acrylic, and urethane polymers—three distinct chemistries that play critical roles in producing durable, high‑performance finishes.
Learners will examine how each resin type contributes to essential coating characteristics such as hardness, flexibility, adhesion, weatherability, chemical resistance, and application performance. Through historical context and modern formulation considerations, the module illustrates how resin selection directly influences end‑use requirements in architectural, industrial, automotive, and specialty coatings.
A major focus is placed on polymer structure and reactivity—including how hydroxyl groups, acid functionality, monomer composition, and glass transition temperature (Tg) shape performance properties. Participants will gain insight into the formation and modification of cellulose derivatives, the versatility of acrylic monomers and copolymers, and the reactive nature of isocyanate chemistry central to urethane systems.
The module also clarifies key formulation concepts such as solvent balance, crosslinking mechanisms, thermoplastic vs. thermosetting behavior, and the role of plasticizers and modifying agents in achieving desired film characteristics. Special attention is given to waterborne technologies—such as water‑reducible acrylics, polyurethane dispersions (PUDs), and water‑based nitrocellulose systems—highlighting their growing importance in modern regulatory and performance contexts.
Learners will further explore emerging technological developments, including chemically linked acrylic‑urethane hybrids, sequential polymerization processes, and new approaches to enhancing durability, flexibility, and corrosion resistance in waterborne systems. These hybrid strategies offer advantages beyond traditional polymer blends and represent one of the most dynamic areas of current coatings research.
Delivered asynchronously, this module is designed for approximately 30–40 minutes of self‑paced learning. Supporting diagrams, chemical structures, and comparison tables help reinforce key concepts, while an end‑of‑module exam ensures comprehension of resin chemistry fundamentals needed for more advanced coursework.
Upon completion, participants will receive a Certificate of Achievement, recognizing their knowledge of cellulosic, acrylic, and urethane resin systems—an essential milestone in developing deeper formulation expertise within the Coatings Academy program.
Knowledge Acquisition
1. History of Resins
2. Cellulosic Resins
3. Acrylic Resins
4. Urethane Resins
5. Acrylic-Urethane Hybrids
6. Knowledge Test
$300.00
*All costs are in Canadian dollars
and do not include applicable taxes.
Career Options
Cellulosic, Acrylic & Urethane Resins in Coatings is an intermediate-level module designed to expand learners’ understanding of three major resin families widely used across the coatings industry and equip learners for careers as advanced chemical formulators.
Requirements
To earn a certificate of completion, participants must complete all sections of the course and attain a final mark of 70% or higher on the Knowledge Test. The Knowledge Test consists of 10 questions.
Oils, Varnishes, Natural Resins and Alkyds is an intermediate course and not a prerequisite for any other e-learning modules. If you do not have any formal training in chemistry consider this course as a starting point to all other modules.
