David Guo - Dow

ABSTRACT
The main biocides used to preserve waterborne coatings belong to the isothiazolinone family. However, this class of chemicals is under investigation by regulatory and eco-label agencies for their rising sensitization rate.

With more stringent regulations on biocides in consumer products and rising concerns on sensitizing biocides like MIT, it is urgent that coatings manufacturers invest in products that eliminate sensitizers use. Many of the available sensitizer label-free solutions are based on high pH inorganic silicate systems, which limit the end-use application.

Dow is exploring a variety of chemical approaches to eliminate sensitizing biocides for in-can preservation in traditional paint pH ranges of 7-9.5. These binders and additives would offer our customers unique solutions to ensure that they meet the new regulations, and are applicator and consumer friendly.

We will discuss promising initial research efforts in both binders and additives for use in sensitizer label-free and biocide-free formulations.

BIO
Dr. Guo is the R&D and TS&D Director for Dow Coating Materials (DCM) in Asia Pacific. In this role, he is responsible for leading the innovation strategy and deliveries to fuel the business growth for Dow Coating Materials in the region. Prior to this role, Dr. Guo held various R&D leadership positions with Dow, including Dow Coating Materials, Dow Asia Pacific Customer Innovation Center, Dow Asia Pacific Core R&D, Dow Wire & Cable business R&D, and R&D/TS&D for Nippon Unicar Company (a Dow JV) based in Kawasaki, Japan.

Prior to joining Dow, Dr. Guo worked for Rogers Corporation based in Connecticut, US, for ten years where he was responsible for developing new technologies and products for printed circuit board materials and adhesives for electronic applications.

Dr. Guo received a Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in conjuncture with Michigan Molecular Institute (MMI) in 1996. Following his graduate studies, he also completed a post-doctoral assignment and later served as a technical staff member at MMI.

Dr. Guo holds more than 60 publications, patents and patent applications.