The paint and coating market for kitchen cabinets, trim, and doors focuses on products designed to enhance the appearance and durability of wood and other commonly used materials. These coatings must meet stringent performance standards, including early block resistance, surfactant leaching resistance, body lotion resistance, and scrub resistance. Traditionally, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) additives have been used to improve block resistance. However, due to increasing regulatory restrictions on these hazardous substances, there is a growing need for alternative solutions. This paper explores the current market landscape for kitchen cabinets, trim, and doors, and discusses our recent sustainability efforts to develop innovative waterborne acrylic latex binders specifically designed for these applications. We will also discuss general strategies to enhance key properties, including early block resistance, surfactant leaching resistance, and body lotion resistance.
