Reactivity of functional groups in surface coating polymers. Part I. Hydroxyl groups in alkyd resins

The factors which can influence the availability of functional groups in polymers are considered. In particular, the importance of hydroxyl groups in the formation and Film‐forming reactions of alkyd resins is discussed, and evidence is presented to suggest that the number of hydroxyl groups available for chemical reaction is not necessarily equivalent to the theoretical value. Factors which influence the availability of the hydroxyl groups are considered, and some of the properties of the alkyd are related to the available hydroxyl content.