Polyterpene Resisns: Part I – A Brief Historical Review

The terpenic resins are polymers of low molecular weight hydrocarbons, obtained by cationic polymerization of terpenes. These products are used in the adhesives, sealants and wax coating industries.Commercial adhesive resins are prepared from monoterpenes -the main ones are α-pinene, β-pinene and dipentene.The softening point and molecular weight of polyterpene resins are critical for their main use (adherence).Its adhesive behavior results from the relationship of the softening point with the molecular weight.At the commercial level, polyterpene resins are produced by polymerization of terpene monomers. Batch and continuous systems are used.The composition of an adhesive requires a wide knowledge of the materials available and the specific requirements of its application.The most common types of adhesives are Pressure Sensitive Adhesives, Hot-melt Adhesives and Structural Adhesives.