Acrylic Modifiers for Vinyl Flooring Solutions

Abstract

This presentation will show how acrylic modifiers can be utilized in vinyl flooring constructions, like luxury vinyl tile. It will illustrate the different vinyl layers that are typically used in the construction of vinyl flooring, and how the selection of acrylic modifiers for the different layers can affect the processability of these layers, and their performance properties. In addition, this presentation will demonstrate how fundamental acrylic copolymer chemistry can influence a flooring manufacturer’s extrusion or calendaring process and meet resilient flooring property requirements.

About the Speaker

Amy Lefebvre is the North American Research and Development Manager for Arkema Inc.’s ACR Plastic Additives team. Plastic Additives produces a broad range of acrylic based modifiers designed to improve the processability and performance properties of PVC and other resin types. In her role, Amy is responsible for managing the development of new modifiers and the technical service activities for the business.

Amy has been with the Plastic Additives team for almost four years, and employed by Arkema for 18 years. Previously, she worked as a R&D scientist for both the Altuglas International and Technical Polymers business units. She received her B.A. in Chemistry and Computer Science from Mount Holyoke College, and her M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering from Polytechnic University and UC Berkeley.