WOOD COATING COMPOSITIONS

Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved wood coating composition wherein said composition (C) comprises, relative to the total weight of composition (C), from 58.00 to 95.00 weight percentage of at least one alkyd resin or at least one drying oil, from 0.10 to 8.00 wt. % of at least one microcrystalline wax having a congealing point from 60 C. to 100 C., and from 5.00 to 34.00 wt. % of at least one synthetic micronized wax, said at least one synthetic micronized wax having a particle size D.sub.90 equal to or less than 36.0 m and a particle size D.sub.50 equal to or less than 20.0 m, wherein the congealing point of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is measured according to the standard ASTM D938, and wherein the particle size of the at least one micronized wax (M.sub.p) is measured according to the standard DIN ISO 13320.

Claims

1. A wood coating composition [composition (C), herein after] comprising, relative to the total weight of the composition (C): from 58.00 to 95.00 weight percentage [wt. %, herein after] of at least one alkyd resin or at least one drying oil; from 0.10 to 8.00 wt. % of at least one microcrystalline wax derived from de-oiling petrolatum during the refining process of crude petroleum and having a congealing point from 60 C. to 100 C. [microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), herein after]; from 5.00 to 34.00 wt. % of at least one synthetic micronized wax selected from the group consisting of micronized polytetrafluoroethylene wax, micronized hybrid wax of polyethylene-polytetrafluoroethylene wax, micronized Fischer-Tropsch wax, micronized polyethylene wax, micronized polypropylene wax, micronized polyamide wax, and micronized polymer hybrids thereof, said at least one synthetic micronized wax having a particle size D.sub.90 equal to or less than 36.0 m and a particle size D.sub.50 equal to or less than 20.0 m [micronized wax (M.sub.p), herein after]; wherein the congealing point of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is measured according to the standard ASTM D938, and wherein the particle size of the at least one micronized wax (M.sub.p) is measured according to the standard DIN ISO 13320.

2. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the composition (C) comprises from 58.00 to 95.00 wt. %, relative to the total weight of the composition (C), of the at least one drying oil, and wherein the at least one drying oil is selected from the group consisting of linseed oil, sunflower oil, tung oil, safflower oil, soybean oil, poppy seed oil, tall oil, peanut oil, (dehydrated) castor oil, corn oil, rapeseed oil, sesame seed oil, rice germ oil, cottonseed oil, fish oil, herring oil, grape seed oil, flaxseed oil, chia oil, oiticica oil, menhaden oil, walnut oil, camelina oil, hemp seed oil, and perilla oil.

3-5. (canceled)

6. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one drying oil, relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 65.00 to 92.00 wt. %.

7. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one drying oil, relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 70.00 to 90.00 wt. %.

8-9. (canceled)

10. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) has a congealing point from 75 C. to 92 C.

11. (canceled)

12. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 0.15 to 6.00 wt. %.

13. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 0.15 to 5.00 wt. %.

14. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 0.20 to 4.00 wt. %.

15. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 0.20 to 3.00 wt. %.

16. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 0.25 to 2.00 wt. %.

17-18. (canceled)

19. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the micronized wax (M.sub.p) has a particle size D.sub.90 equal to or less than 25.0 m and a particle size D.sub.50 equal to or less than 14.0 m.

20-24. (canceled)

25. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the micronized wax (M.sub.p) has a particle size distribution: D.sub.103.0 m and D.sub.9025.0 m and D.sub.5014.0 m.

26-27. (canceled)

28. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene-polytetrafluoroethylene wax, micronized Fischer-Tropsch wax, micronized polyethylene wax, and micronized polypropylene wax, and micronized polymer hybrids thereof.

29. The composition (C) according to claim 1, wherein the micronized wax (M.sub.p), relative to the total weight of the composition (C), is present in an amount from 5.00 to 25.00 wt. %.

30-33. (canceled)

34. A method for the manufacturing of the composition (C), according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises the steps of intimate admixing: from 58.00 to 95.00 wt. % of at least one alkyd resin or at least one drying oil; from 0.10 to 8.00 wt. % of at least one microcrystalline wax derived from de-oiling petrolatum during the refining process of crude petroleum and having a congealing point from 60 C. to 100 C. [microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), herein after]; from 5.00 to 34.00 wt. % of at least one synthetic micronized wax selected from the group consisting of micronized polytetrafluoroethylene wax, micronized hybrid wax of polyethylene-polytetrafluoroethylene wax, micronized Fischer-Tropsch wax, micronized polyethylene wax, micronized polypropylene wax, micronized polyamide wax, and micronized polymer hybrids thereof, said at least one synthetic micronized wax having a particle size D.sub.90 equal to or less than 36.0 m and a particle size D.sub.50 equal to or less than 20.0 m [micronized wax (M.sub.p), herein after]; wherein all wt. % are relative to the total weight of the composition (C), wherein the congealing point of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is measured according to the standard ASTM D938, wherein the particle size of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is measured according to the standard DIN ISO 13320, wherein the intimate admixing of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is carried out at a temperature equal to or greater than the congealing point of said microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), and wherein the intimate admixing of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is carried out at a temperature lower than the melting point of said micronized wax (M.sub.p).

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is first mixed in at least part of the at least one alkyd resin or the at least one drying oil thereby forming a first premix, whereby said first premix is then further mixed with the micronized wax (M.sub.p), optionally said micronized (M.sub.p) wax being first dispersed in at least another part of the at least one alkyd resin or the at least one drying oil thereby forming a second premix, and optionally the remaining part of the at least one alkyd resin or the at least one drying oil.

36. A method for treating a surface or at least part of a surface of a wood product wherein said wood product is treated with the composition (C), according to claim 1, and wherein the composition (C) is applied to the surface of at least part of the surface of the wood product by painting, spraying such as air-atomized spraying, air-assisted spraying and airless spraying, flow-coating, transfer-coating, roller coating, brushing, impregnating, dipping, spreading, curtain coating, by using conventional equipment such as but not limited to a sprayer, a roller coating machine, a cloth, a brush, and a polishing machine with pads.

37. The method according to claim 36, wherein the wood product is selected from the group consisting of decking, siding, siding cladding, roof shingles, furniture, veneer, flooring, particle board (PB), hardboard, plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), flake board, chipboard, fibreboard, medium density fibreboard (MDF), and high density fibreboard (HDF).

38. The method according to claim 36, wherein the composition (C) is applied to the surface or at least part of the surface of the wood product in an amount from 8.0 gram per square meter [g/m.sup.2, herein after] to 40.0 g/m.sup.2.

39. The method according to claim 36, wherein, prior to application, the composition (C) is first mixed with at least one accelerator, preferably at least one isocyanate-based accelerator.

40. (canceled)

Description

[0178] The reference numbers used in the experimental part, as described and detailed below, in particular with reference to the analytical test method for measuring the slip resistance of the compositions (C), relate to the annexed drawings, wherein:

[0179] FIG. 1. is a measurement setup for measuring the slip resistance under a static force. In particular, the distance X is systematically increased up to the point where a block 2 begins to slide on an oak board 1, whereby the oak board 1 has been treated with the composition (C) according to the present invention, and as detailed above. Consequently, the distance X is thus a measure of the slip resistance of the composition (C).

[0180] FIG. 2, and FIG. 3. are measurement setups for measuring the slip resistance under a dynamic force. With reference to said measurement setups of FIG. 2, and FIG. 3, a pendulum block 3 starting from two different angular distances is swung against a block 2 on an oak board 1, whereby the oak board 1 has been treated with the composition (C) according to the present invention, and as detailed above. Consequently, the distance X is thus a measure of the slip resistance of the composition (C).

[0181] FIG. 4. shows the measurement results regarding the stability of Examples 6 and 11 according to the present invention and Comparative Example 9 against phase separation via visual observations (as measured after a period of 25 days at 20 C.).

EXAMPLES

[0182] The invention will be now described in more details with reference to the following examples, whose purpose is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. All mixing ratios, contents and concentrations in this text are given in units of weight and percent by weight unless otherwise stated.

General Analytical Test Methods

Stability Against Phase Separation

i. Via Rheology Measurements:

[0183] The stability against phase separation was measured by an oscillatory rheological measurement applying a sinusoidal voltage distortion in order to examine the viscoelastic properties of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, at rest. The resulting numerical values regarding the known rheological parameters of storage modulus G (Pa) and loss modulus G (Pa) were determined, respectively. The Modular Compact Rheometer MCR 302 was used originating from the company Anton Paar Gmbh (Austria), operated with the RheoCompass software, equipped with a plate-plate trigonometry, and using a PP50/P2 spindle. The compositions (C) were loaded on the fixed stationary lower peltier plate of the rheometer and the spindle measuring head was lowered to a gap of 0.5 mm (i.e. the distance between the lower peltier plate and the spindle measuring head). The Modular Compact Rheometer MCR 302 was calibrated according to the manufacturer's procedure before starting measurements or between measurements when the upper spindle measurement head was removed for cleaning. The compositions (C) were free of visible impurities or air bubbles and were conditioned at room temperature prior to any measurement (221 C.).

Measurement Parameters:

[0184] method=amplitude sweep; [0185] temperature=20 C.; [0186] angular velocity =10 rad.Math.s.sup.1; [0187] strain=from 0.01 to 100%; and [0188] number of data points=60, logarithmically distributed.
ii. Via Visual Observations:

[0189] Closed transparent containers made of plastic were each individually filled with equal amounts of the compositions (C), as detailed above. Subsequently, the respective containers were left untouched for a period of 25 days at 20 C. After those 25 days at 20 C., these containers were visually compared with the naked eye and precisely evaluated regarding their stability against phase separation.

Spreadability

[0190] With regards to the evaluation of the spreadability (i.e. the lubricity or the polishability) of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, viscosity measurements (expressed in mPa.Math.s (cP)) at high shear forces were performed at 20 C. using the Modular Compact Rheometer MCR 302 originating from the company Anton Paar Gmbh (Austria), operated with the RheoCompass software, equipped with a plate-plate trigonometry, and using a PP50/P2 spindle. The compositions (C) were loaded on the fixed stationary lower peltier plate of the rheometer and the spindle measuring head was lowered to a gap of 0.15 mm (i.e. the distance between the lower peltier plate and the spindle measuring head). The Modular Compact Rheometer MCR 302 was calibrated according to the manufacturer's procedure before starting measurements or when the upper spindle measurement head was removed for cleaning between measurements. The compositions (C) were free of visible impurities or air bubbles and were conditioned at room temperature prior to any measurement (221 C.).

Measurement Parameters:

[0191] temperature=20 C.; and [0192] shear rate=10000 s.sup.1.

Antiblocking Properties

[0193] The measurements regarding the antiblocking properties of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, were performed according to the standard ASTM D.sub.2793-99 (2017) whereby the following method and measurement parameters were additionally taken into account: [0194] the compositions (C) were applied using a spongy pad to one side of oak boards; [0195] the compositions (C) were mixed beforehand respectively with a polyisocyanate accelerator at a weight ratio of 3:1; [0196] size oak boards=5 cm19 cm; [0197] finish grade of oak boards=sanded with sandpaper characterized by a grain size increasing from 60 to 120 until a scratch-free surface was obtained. The wooden surface was then thoroughly cleaned with a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust residues; [0198] 0.12-0.14 g of the composition (C) on a wet basis was applied to the oak board (size=5 cm19 cm). This event was verified by weighing the particular oak board by using a standard scale with a reading accuracy of 0.01 g; [0199] drying time before the oak boards were stacked and pushed together per series of 6 oak boards=15 minutes; [0200] after this drying time, a series of 6 oak boards were stacked from bottom to top as follows: one oak board with its side with composition (C) facing up, two oak boards with their respective sides with composition (C) facing down, one oak board with its side with composition (C) facing up, two oak boards with their respective sides with composition (C) facing down. In this way, a stacking is provided with two face-to-face contacts and two face-to-back contacts; [0201] pressure on the oak boards=170000 Pa; [0202] temperature=22 C.; [0203] relative humidity=50%; and [0204] time duration=24 hours.

Gloss Level Measurements

[0205] The gloss level measurements of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, were performed according to the ASTM D523 standard and using the ZGM 1130 Zehnter-Glossmeter 20, 60, 85 and reflection haze H. The following method and measurement parameters were additionally taken into account: [0206] the compositions (C) were applied using a spongy pad to one side of oak boards; [0207] the compositions (C) were mixed beforehand respectively with a polyisocyanate accelerator at a weight ratio of 3:1; [0208] size oak boards=5 cm19 cm; [0209] finish grade of oak boards=sanded with sandpaper characterized by a grain size increasing from 60 to 120 until a scratch-free surface was obtained. The wooden surface was then thoroughly cleaned with a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust residues; [0210] layer thickness composition (C) on a dry basis=15 g per m.sup.2. This event was verified by weighing the particular oak board by using a standard scale with a reading accuracy of 0.01 g; [0211] temperature=22 C.; [0212] gloss meter geometry=60 incoming light rays; and [0213] measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85.

Slip Resistance

[0214] The slip resistance of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, was measured in accordance with the measurement setups as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, respectively. The slip resistance under a static force was measured in accordance with the measurement setup of FIG. 1. The slip resistance under a dynamic force was measured according to the measurement setups of FIGS. 2-3.

[0215] With reference to the measurement setups as illustrated respectively in FIGS. 1-3, the following method and measurement parameters were additionally taken into account: [0216] the compositions (C) were applied using a spongy pad to one side of oak boards; [0217] the compositions (C) were mixed beforehand respectively with a polyisocyanate accelerator at a weight ratio of 3:1; [0218] size oak board 1=5 cm46.6 cm; [0219] mass of block 2=253.00 g; [0220] mass of pendulum block 3=745.54 g; [0221] finish grade of oak boards=sanded with sandpaper characterized by a grain size increasing from 60 to 120 until a scratch-free surface was obtained. The wooden surface was then thoroughly cleaned with a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust residues; [0222] layer thickness composition (C) on a dry basis=15 g per m.sup.2. This event was verified by weighing the particular oak board by using a standard scale with a reading accuracy of 0.01 g; and [0223] temperature=22 C.

[0224] With concern to the measurement setup of FIG. 1, the distance X was systematically increased up to the point where the block 2 began to slide on the oak board 1, said oak board 1 being coated with the composition (C). Consequently, the distance X is thus a measure of the slip resistance of the respective composition (C).

[0225] With concern to the measurement setups of FIGS. 2-3, the pendulum block 3 starting from two different angular distances was swung against the block 2 on the oak board 1, said oak board 1 being coated with the composition (C). Consequently, the distance X is thus a measure of the slip resistance of the respective composition (C).

Resistance to Liquids

[0226] The measurements regarding the resistance of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, to liquids were performed according to the standard BS EN 12720: 2009+A1: 2013. The following method and measurement parameters were additionally taken into account: [0227] the compositions (C) were applied using a spongy pad to one side of oak boards; [0228] the compositions (C) were mixed beforehand respectively with a polyisocyanate accelerator at a weight ratio of 3:1; [0229] size oak boards=5 cm19 cm; [0230] finish grade of oak boards=sanded with sandpaper characterized by a grain size increasing from 60 to 120 until a scratch-free surface was obtained. The wooden surface was then thoroughly cleaned with a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust residues; [0231] tested liquids=water and cola; [0232] 1 h and 4 h after application of one of the liquids to the oak boards, being coated with the composition (C), said oak boards were studied for any staining in a color assessment cabinet BGD 276 equipped with a lamp TL84; [0233] regarding the 4 h samples, the applied liquids were shielded from the surroundings immediately after application using a petri dish; [0234] layer thickness composition (C) on a dry basis=15 g per m.sup.2. This event was verified by weighing the particular oak board by using a standard scale with a reading accuracy of 0.01 g; [0235] temperature=22.7 C.; and [0236] relative humidity=56.3%.

Scrub Resistance (Abrasion Resistance)

[0237] The measurements regarding the scrub resistance of the compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, were performed according to the standard ASTM D.sub.2486-17 and using the BGD 526 Wet Abrasion Scrub Tester. The following method and measurement parameters were additionally taken into account: [0238] the compositions (C) were applied using a spongy pad to one side of oak boards; [0239] the compositions (C) were mixed beforehand respectively with a polyisocyanate accelerator at a weight ratio of 3:1; [0240] size oak boards=5 cm19 cm; [0241] finish grade of oak boards=sanded with sandpaper characterized by a grain size increasing from 60 to 120 until a scratch-free surface was obtained. The wooden surface was then thoroughly cleaned with a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust residues; [0242] mass brush=459 g; [0243] demineralized water was used instead of an abrasive scrub agent; [0244] length of the bristles of the brush=1.8 cm (the end and the beginning of the bristles were marked so as to ensure that scrubbing was always performed in the same direction); [0245] the brushes were thoroughly cleaned with water and soaked in water before the start of the scrub test, furthermore between each scrub test the brushes were cleaned with water; [0246] layer thickness composition (C) on a dry basis=15 g per m.sup.2. This event was verified by weighing the particular oak board by using a standard scale with a reading accuracy of 0.01 g; [0247] 10 ml of water was applied per oak board to the scrubbed course; [0248] for each scrub test, the bristles of the brush were already wetted with water before starting the scrub test; [0249] temperature=22 C.; and [0250] 371 scrub cycles per minute.

[0251] The oak boards, said oak boards being coated with the respective compositions (C) according to the present invention, as detailed above, were scrubbed at their centers for a series of 400 scrub cycles (as set on the BGD 526 Wet Abrasion Scrub Tester). This series of 400 scrub cycles was repeated until wear was noticed on the respective oak board being coated with the respective compositions (C). The number of series of 400 scrub cycles is thus a measure of the scrub resistance of the respective compositions (C).

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 components used in the compositions of the Examples and in the compositions of the Comparative Examples Company Description Drying oil linseed oil raw (untreated) soybean oil raw (untreated) Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) - 60 C. Alpha Wax congealing point.sup.1: 60 C. microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) - 86 C. Alpha Wax congealing point.sup.1: 86 C. Synthetic micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 Munzing surface-modified polyethylene wax.sup.2; D.sub.90 < 28 m and D.sub.50 < 8 m Ceretan MX9510 Munzing polyolefin wax.sup.2; D.sub.90 < 10 m and D.sub.50 < 4 m Ceretan MPF 2520D Munzing polypropylene wax coated with PTFE.sup.2; D.sub.90 < 20 m and D.sub.50 < 10 m Ceretan MX9825 Munzing polyolefin wax.sup.2; D.sub.90 < 25 m and D.sub.50 < 9 m Ceretan MXF9899 Munzing polyolefin wax coated with PTFE.sup.2; D.sub.50 < 50 m Natural wax beeswax Prayon bleached beeswax Benelux Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: Borchers cobalt octoate drying agent Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 Sioen pigment preparation based on titanium dioxide (TiO.sub.2) Accelerator Poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate).sup.3 CAS: 28182-81-2 .sup.1The congealing point of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is measured according to the standard ASTM D938. .sup.2The particle size of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is measured according to the standard DIN ISO 13320. .sup.3If an accelerator is applied, the composition is respectively mixed with the accelerator in a weight ratio of 3:1.

General Procedure for Manufacturing Composition (C) According to the Present Invention

[0252] Reference is hereby made to the above Table 1 with respect to the various components used in the compositions of the Examples and used in the compositions of the Comparative Examples. The exact compositions of the Examples and of the Comparative Examples, with respect to the type of components contained therein and the related quantities thereof, are described in Tables 2-9 below.

[0253] In a first step, a premix was made of a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in a portion of a drying oil. The mixture was heated under stirring until the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) was melted in the portion of the drying oil (i.e. the mixture was heated to a temperature greater than the congealing point of said microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in order to ensure and achieve its effective and homogeneous melting into the drying oil). Then, the mixture was cooled to room temperature in order to form the premix comprising said microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in the portion of the drying oil as a turbid suspension.

[0254] In a second step, the aforementioned premix was further mixed with the remaining components of the compositions of the Examples and of the Comparative Examples, as listed in Tables 2-9 below. The whole mixture was mixed for 5 minutes at a temperature lower than the melting point of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) (i.e. in order to maintain or preserve its micronized form in the obtained mixture) using a high intensity mixer, the mixer being equipped with a dispersion disk.

Influence of the Presence of the Microcrystalline Wax (W.SUB.c.)

[0255] Examples 2-4 (Ex 2-4) and Examples 6-8 (Ex 6-8) according to the invention were manufactured according to the general procedure described above. The experimental results are shown below in Tables 2-4.

[0256] The Comparative Example 1 (CEx 1) and the Comparative Example 5 (CEx 5) do not contain any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c). These Comparative Examples were manufactured by mixing the respective components of the composition, as described in Table 2 below for the Comparative Example 1 and Table 3 for the Comparative Example 5, for 5 minutes at a temperature lower than the melting point of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) (i.e. in order to maintain or preserve its micronized form in the obtained mixture) using a high intensity mixer, the mixer being equipped with a dispersion disk. The experimental results are shown below in Tables 2-3.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 influence of the amount of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) CEx 1 Ex 2 Ex 3 Ex 4 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 64.50 56.50 64.00 64.40 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) 0.00 8.00 0.50 0.10 congealing point: 60 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 Stability against phase separation via rheology measurements [strain = 0.03%] G (Pa) 4.76 4029.10 89.17 30.64 G (Pa) 5.89 2639.20 42.77 21.74 G G (Pa) 1.13 1389.90 46.40 8.90 Resistance to liquids water.sup.1 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 cola.sup.1 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 .sup.1Score 0 = no stain visible; Score 1 = a stain visible but removable after surface care; Score 2 = a stain visible and not removable with surface care.

[0257] The experimental results as shown in Table 2 clearly demonstrate that the presence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in the compositions (C) according to the invention provides an increased stability of said compositions (C) against phase separation, in particular when compared to the compositions which do not contain any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), and with further reference to the disclosed of US 2003/0154885 A1, compositions of the working examples US 2007/0037001 A1, EP 1217051 A2, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,857,578 A in absence of any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) contained therein. As clearly defined above in the description of the present application, and as it is furthermore generally known in the art, a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) refers to a specific type of wax that is derived from de-oiling petrolatum during the refining process of crude petroleum. When compared to paraffin waxes (which mainly contains unbranched alkanes) for instance as disclosed in the working examples of US 2007/0037001 A1, microcrystalline waxes (W.sub.c) contain a significantly higher percentage of saturated isoparaffinic (branched) hydrocarbons, i.e. isoparaffins, and naphthenic hydrocarbons, thereby resulting in smaller, thinner, and more flexible crystal structures when compared to paraffin wax crystals.

[0258] An increased stability against phase separation is, via the rheology measurements as described above, characterized by a high storage modulus G relative to the loss modulus G and thus a positive value for the difference G-G. Such increased (rheological) stability translates into a less rapid sagging as a function of time of the (TiO.sub.2) pigment, the micronized wax (M.sub.p), or any other additional components as dispersed in the compositions (C). More specifically, Examples 2-4 according to the present invention differ from the Comparative Example 1 only in that Examples 2-4 contain 8.00, 0.50, and 0.10 wt. % of a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), respectively. The Comparative Example 1 does not contain any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c). The Comparative Example 1 is furthermore characterized by a negative value for the difference G-G (i.e. 1.13 Pa), while the Examples 2-4 are characterized by positive values for the said difference G-G, these positive values increasing with an increasing amount of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) as contained in the respective compositions (C). Such higher values of the storage modulus G relative to the loss modulus G lead to an increased stability of the compositions (C) against phase separation.

[0259] The observed increased stability against phase separation, as described above based on the rheology measurements performed, was also and further confirmed via visual observations. After 25 days at 20 C., Examples 2-4 showed an increased stability against phase separation while a clearly larger and more significant phase separation was noticed in the case of the composition of the Comparative Example 1.

[0260] The viscosity measurements at high shear forces have demonstrated that, despite the presence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in the compositions (C) provides an increased stability of the said compositions (C) against phase separation, a too high amount of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) results in a less good spreadability (i.e. a less good lubricity or polishability) of said compositions (C). Example 2 contains 8.00 wt. % microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) and is characterized by a higher viscosity, measured at high shear strength, equal to 252 mPa.Math.s when compared to the Comparative Example 1. The Comparative Example 1 does not contain any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) and is characterized by a lower viscosity, measured at high shear force, equal to 107 mPa.Math.s. In case of the presence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in amounts greater than 8.00 wt. %, the spreadability (i.e. the lubricity or the polishability) of the compositions, despite the obtained increased stability against phase separation, becomes less good.

[0261] In addition to the obtained improved and increased stability against phase separation, the other properties of Examples 2-4 according to the present invention are maintained, such as the resistance to liquids. Example 2 is further characterized, for example, by a gloss level equal to 4.1 GU leading to a good matting. Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. In addition, Example 2 is characterized, for example, by a good slip resistance as measured via the measurement setup of FIG. 1. More precisely, the X value of Example 2 via the measurement setup of FIG. 1 is equal to 308 mm which corresponds to excellent slip resistance (when X250 mm=low slip resistance; when 250 mm<X<300 mm=good slip resistance; when X300 mm=excellent slip resistance).

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 influence of the nature of the drying oil CEx 5 Ex 6 Ex 7 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 0.00 64.00 0.00 soybean oil 64.50 0.00 64.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax 0.00 0.50 0.50 (W.sub.c) congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 15.00 15.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 20.00 20.00 20.00 Stability against phase separation via rheology measurements [strain = 0.03%] G (Pa) 4.76 10.38 27.60 G (Pa) 7.71 9.16 15.64 G G (Pa) 2.95 1.22 11.96 Gloss level.sup.1 gloss level nd 7.7 9.1 (gloss units GU).sup.2 Resistance to liquids water.sup.3 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 cola.sup.3 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 Scrub resistance (abrasion resistance) number of series of 400 nd 6 6 scrub cycles to wear .sup.1Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. .sup.2The experimental values reported are the average values after five experiments. .sup.3Score 0 = no stain visible; Score 1 = a stain visible but removable after surface care; Score 2 = a stain visible and not removable with surface care.

[0262] The experimental results as shown in Table 3 clearly demonstrate that the linseed oil as the drying oil, as described in Table 2 for Examples 2-4 according to the present invention, can be successfully substituted by a soybean oil as the drying oil while maintaining the same technical effects such as, for example, good stability against phase separation, matting, resistance to liquids, and scrub resistance. More specifically, Examples 6-7 according to the present invention, as described in Table 3, only differ from each other in that the linseed oil as the drying oil for Example 6 was now completely substituted in Example 7 by an equal amount of a soybean oil as the drying oil.

[0263] Both Examples 6-7 according to the present invention are characterized by a positive value for the difference G-G. Such higher values of the storage modulus G relative to the loss modulus G lead to an increased stability of the Examples 6-7 against phase separation. The Comparative Example 5, based on soybean oil as the drying oil, does not contain any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c). The Comparative Example 5 is characterized by a negative value for the difference G-G (i.e. 2.95 Pa) while Examples 6-7 are characterized by positive values for the said difference G-G. This observed increased stability against phase separation, as demonstrated and evidenced based on the rheology measurements performed, was also further confirmed via visual observations. After 25 days at 20 C., Examples 6-7 showed an increased stability against phase separation while a clearly larger and more significant phase separation was noticed in the case of the compositions in the absence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c).

[0264] The remaining experiments as shown in Table 3 demonstrate that, in addition to the obtained good stability against phase separation, the other technical properties of the Examples 6-7 according to the present invention, such as in particular matting, resistance to liquids, and scrub resistance, are maintained. As described above, good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 influence of the nature of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) Ex 7 Ex 8 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 0.00 0.00 soybean oil 64.00 63.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax 0.00 1.50 (W.sub.c) congealing point: 60 C. microcrystalline wax 0.50 0.00 (W.sub.c) congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 15.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 20.00 20.00 Stability against phase separation via rheology measurements [strain = 0.03%] G (Pa) 27.60 65.98 G (Pa) 15.64 37.00 G G (Pa) 11.96 28.98

[0265] The experimental results shown in Table 4 clearly demonstrate that for both cases concerning the presence of a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) with a congealing point of 60 C. on the one hand as well as a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) with a congealing point of 86 C. on the other hand provides good stability against phase separation, whereby the congealing point of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) is measured according to the standard ASTM D938. For example, Examples 7-8 according to the present invention differ only in that Example 7 contains 0.50 wt. % of a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) having a congealing point of 86 C., while Example 8 contains 1.50 wt. % of a microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) having a congealing point of 60 C. Both Examples 7-8 according to the present invention are characterized by a positive value for the difference G-G (i.e. 11.96 Pa and 28.98 Pa, respectively). Such higher values of the storage modulus G relative to the loss modulus G lead to an increased stability of the compositions (C) against phase separation.

[0266] The observed increased stability against phase separation, as described above based on the rheology measurements performed, was also confirmed via visual observations. After 25 days at 20 C., Examples 7-8 showed an increased stability against phase separation.

Influence of the Presence of the Micronized Wax (M.SUB.p.)

[0267] Examples 10-11 and 13-15 (Ex 10-11 and 13-15) according to the present invention were manufactured according to the general procedure described above. The experimental results are shown below in Tables 5-8.

[0268] The Comparative Examples 9, 12, and 16 (CEx 9, 12, and 16) do not contain any micronized wax (M.sub.p). The Comparative Example 12 contains a natural beeswax and the Comparative Example 16 contains a synthetic micronized polyolefin wax coated with PTFE and whereby D.sub.50<50 m as measured according to the standard DIN ISO 13320. The Comparative Examples 12 and 16 were manufactured in the same way as for the Examples 10-11 and 13-15 according to the present invention. The Comparative Example 9 was manufactured by mixing the respective components of the composition, as shown in Table 5, for 5 minutes using a high intensity mixer, the mixer being equipped with a dispersion disk. The experimental results are shown below in Tables 5-8.

TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 influence of the amount of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) CEx 9 Ex 10 Ex 6 Ex 11 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 79.00 74.00 64.00 45.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 0.00 5.00 15.00 34.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 Spreadability Viscosity (mPa .Math. s) 70 71 113 392 Gloss level.sup.1 gloss level 13.9 9.7 7.7 7.1 (gloss units GU).sup.2 Slip resistance X (mm) measurement 128.3 102.5 113.3 91.7 setup FIG. 2 (see .sup.3) Resistance to liquids water.sup.4 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 cola.sup.4 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 Scrub resistance number of series of 400 5 6 6 6 scrub cycles to wear .sup.1Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. .sup.2The experimental values reported are the average values after five experiments. .sup.3 When X 120 mm = low slip resistance; when X 100 mm < X < 120 mm = good slip resistance; when X 100 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.4Score 0 = no stain visible; Score 1 = a stain visible but removable after surface care; Score 2 = a stain visible and not removable with surface care.

[0269] The stability against phase separation was investigated via visual observations. The influence of the presence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) in the compositions (C) according to the present invention on the stability of said compositions (C) against phase separation has already been demonstrated and discussed above, in particular with reference to the experimental results as described in Tables 2-4. The inventors have now surprisingly found that, in addition to the presence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c), the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) also plays a role in the stability of the compositions (C) against phase separation, especially in particular in order to delay or prevent the sagging of the more heavy pigments such as TiO.sub.2. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the inventors have found that the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) in larger amounts, e.g. 15.00 wt. % for Example 6 and 34.00 wt. % for Example 11, provides an improved stability to the compositions (C) against phase separation with respect to the sagging of the more heavy pigments such as TiO.sub.2 dispersed in said compositions (C).

[0270] The viscosity measurements at high shear forces have shown that a too high amount of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) results in a less good spreadability (i.e. a less good lubricity or polishability) of the compositions. In case of the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) in amounts greater than 34.00 wt. %, the spreadability (i.e. the lubricity or the polishability) of the compositions, despite, among other things, the obtained increased stability against phase separation, becomes less good.

[0271] The Examples 10-11 and the Example 6 according to the present invention in the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) further demonstrate good matting in the gloss level measurements, whereby a minimal amount of 5.00 wt. % of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is necessary. Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. The Comparative Example 9 in the absence of any micronized wax (M.sub.p) does not demonstrate sufficient matting when compared to the other compositions (C) in which the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present. Furthermore, with reference to the Examples 10-11 and the Example 6 according to the present invention, the inventors have found that for a same particle size and chemical nature of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) an increasing concentration of said micronized wax (M.sub.p) leads to enhanced matting.

[0272] Furthermore, the Examples 10-11 and the Example 6 according to the present invention in the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) demonstrate a good slip resistance under a dynamic force (with reference to the measurement setup of FIG. 2). The Comparative Example 9 in the absence of any micronized wax (M.sub.p) is characterized by a less good slip resistance when compared to the other compositions (C) in which the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present. Furthermore, with reference to Examples 10-11 and the Example 6 according to the present invention, the inventors have found that for a same particle size and chemical nature of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) an increasing concentration of said micronized wax (M.sub.p) leads to improved slip resistance.

[0273] Furthermore, the Examples 10-11 and the Example 6 according to the present invention in the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) demonstrate good scrub resistance. The Comparative Example 9 in the absence of any micronized wax (M.sub.p) has a less good scrub resistance when compared to the other compositions (C) in which the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present.

TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 influence of the amount of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) on the antiblocking properties CEx 9 Ex 6 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 79.00 64.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) 0.50 0.50 congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 0.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 20.00 20.00 Antiblocking properties.sup.1 oak board 1 E D oak board 2 E D oak board 3 E B oak board 4 E D oak board 5 E D oak board 6 D B .sup.1Degree of blocking: A = free fall separation; B = light tap to separate; C = light pressure to separate; D = moderate pressure to separate; E = extreme pressure to separate; F = tool required to separate.

[0274] The Example 6 according to the present invention, in the presence of 15.00 wt. % of the micronized wax (M.sub.p), is characterized by good antiblocking properties. The Comparative Example 9, in the absence of any micronized wax (M.sub.p), demonstrates significantly less good to no antiblocking properties when compared to the said Example 6. The observed differences in antiblocking properties for the Example 6 and the Comparative Example 9 are most significant for oak boards 3 and 6 (i.e. face-to-back contacts).

TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 influence of the nature of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) CEx 12 Ex 13 Ex 14 Ex 6 Ex 15 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 64.00 64.00 64.00 64.00 64.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 wax (W.sub.c) congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) beeswax 15.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Ceretan MX9510 0.00 15.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Ceretan MPF 0.00 0.00 15.00 0.00 0.00 2520D Ceretan ME0825 0.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 0.00 Ceretan MX9825 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06- 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 1101 Gloss level.sup.1 gloss level 13.2 nd 7.5 7.7 9.0 (gloss units GU).sup.2 Slip resistance X (mm) 280 310 330 315 370 measurement setup FIG. 1 (score: see .sup.3) Resistance to liquids water.sup.4 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 cola.sup.4 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 Scrub resistance number of series 4 7 6 6 6 of 400 scrub cycles to wear .sup.1Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. .sup.2The experimental values reported are the average values after five experiments. .sup.3 When X 250 mm = low slip resistance; when 250 mm < X < 300 mm = good slip resistance; when X 300 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.4Score 0 = no stain visible; Score 1 = a stain visible but removable after surface care; Score 2 = a stain visible and not removable with surface care.

[0275] The experimental results as shown in Table 7 demonstrate that the Comparative Example 12 comprising 15.00 wt. % of a natural beeswax, said beeswax as for instance contained in the aqueous wood wax oils as described in CN 110330892 A as well, has an inferior matting, slip resistance under a static force (with reference to the measurement setup of FIG. 1), and scrub resistance when compared to the Examples 13-15 and Example 6 according to the present invention in which 15.00 wt. % of a specific synthetic micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present. The aqueous wood wax oils as described in CN 110330892 A are prepared by melting and mixing the various components at high temperatures, i.e. temperatures above the melting point of the various components such as temperatures up to 180-200 C., so that in these aqueous wood wax oils no wax is present in micronized form. In particular, the experimental results shown in Table 7 demonstrate that in case of the Comparative Example 12, wear already occurred at four series of 400 scrub cycles, whereas in the Examples 13-15 and Example 6 according to the present invention, at least six series of 400 scrub cycles were required before any wear could be observed. This observation highlights and demonstrates the adverse impact of the beeswax as contained in Comparative Example 12 on the various properties as mentioned in the above Table 7, when compared to the beneficial impact of the specific synthetic micronized waxes (M.sub.p) as contained in Examples 13-15 and Example 6 on said various properties.

TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 influence of the particle size of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) CEx 16 Ex 14 Ex 6 Ex 15 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 64.00 64.00 64.00 64.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 wax (W.sub.c) congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan 15.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 MXF9899 Ceretan MPF 0.00 15.00 0.00 0.00 2520D Ceretan ME0825 0.00 0.00 15.00 0.00 Ceretan MX9825 0.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06- 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 1101 Gloss level.sup.1 gloss level 10.7 7.5 7.7 9.0 (gloss units GU).sup.2 Slip resistance X (mm) 123.3 106.7 113.3 78.3 measurement setup FIG. 2 (score: see .sup.3) X (mm) 210.0 186.7 194.3 198.3 measurement setup FIG. 3 (score: see .sup.4) Resistance to liquids water.sup.5 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 cola.sup.5 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 .sup.1Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. .sup.2The experimental values reported are the average values after five experiments. .sup.3 When X 120 mm = low slip resistance; when X 100 mm < X < 120 mm = good slip resistance; when X 100 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.4 When X 230 mm = low slip resistance; when X 200 mm < X < 230 mm = good slip resistance; when X 200 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.5Score 0 = no stain visible; Score 1 = a stain visible but removable after surface care; Score 2 = a stain visible and not removable with surface care.

[0276] The experimental results as shown in Table 8 demonstrate that the compositions comprising a synthetic micronized wax (M.sub.p) having a too high particle size are characterized by poorer matting and slip resistance. In particular, the Comparative Example 16 (CEx 16) contains 15.00 wt. % of a synthetic micronized wax having a particle size D.sub.50<50 m. Moreover, the Comparative Example 16 leads to remarkably less good results in terms of matting and slip resistance when compared to the Examples 14-15 and Example 6 according to the invention in which 15.00 wt. % of a specific synthetic micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present. This observation highlights the importance of the particle size of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) for obtaining the good properties of the compositions (C) according to the present invention and as demonstrated by Examples 14-15 and Example 6 in Table 8.

[0277] The Examples 14-15 and the Example 6 according to the present invention in the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) demonstrate good matting in the gloss level measurements. Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. The Comparative Example 16 in the presence of a synthetic micronized wax having a too high particle size (i.e. D.sub.50<50 m) does not demonstrate sufficient matting when compared to the Examples 14-15 and Example 6 in which the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present. Furthermore, the Examples 14-15 and the Example 6 according to the present invention in the presence of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) demonstrate good slip resistance under a dynamic force (with reference to the measurement setup of FIGS. 2-3). The Comparative Example 16 in the presence of a synthetic micronized wax having a too high particle size (i.e. D.sub.50<50 m) has a significantly lower slip resistance when compared to the Examples 14-15 and Example 6 in which the micronized wax (M.sub.p) is present.

Influence of the Presence of the Microcrystalline Wax (W.sub.c) and of the Micronized Wax (M.sub.p)

[0278] The Comparative Example 17 (CEx 17) does not contain any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) and does not contain any micronized wax (M.sub.p). The Comparative Example 17 was prepared by mixing the respective constituents of the composition, as shown in Table 9, for 5 minutes using a high intensity mixer with the mixer equipped with a dispersion disk. The experimental results are shown below in Table 9.

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 influence of the presence of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) and of the micronized wax (M.sub.p) CEx 17 Ex 6 Amount (wt. %) Drying oil linseed oil 79.50 64.00 Microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) 0.00 0.50 congealing point: 86 C. Micronized wax (M.sub.p) Ceretan ME0825 0.00 15.00 Additional ingredients (I.sub.c) drying agent: 0.50 0.50 Octa-Soligen Cobalt 12 HS Pigment Embaplast 06-1101 20.00 20.00 Spreadability Viscosity (mPa .Math. s) 55 113 Gloss level.sup.1 gloss level 10.1 7.7 (gloss units GU).sup.2 Slip resistance X (mm) measurement setup 275 315 FIG. 1 (see .sup.3) X (mm) measurement setup 133.3 113.3 FIG. 2 (see .sup.4) X (mm) measurement setup 208.3 194.3 FIG. 3 (see .sup.5) Resistance to liquids water.sup.6 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 cola.sup.6 1 h: score 0 1 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 4 h: score 0 Scrub resistance number of series of 400 scrub 5 6 cycles to wear .sup.1Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. .sup.2The experimental values reported are the average values after five experiments. .sup.3 When X 250 mm = low slip resistance; when 250 mm < X < 300 mm = good slip resistance; when X 300 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.4 When X 120 mm = low slip resistance; when X 100 mm < X < 120 mm = good slip resistance; when X 100 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.5 When X 230 mm = low slip resistance; when X 200 mm < X < 230 mm = good slip resistance; when X 200 mm = excellent slip resistance. .sup.6Score 0 = no stain visible; Score 1 = a stain visible but removable after surface care; Score 2 = a stain visible and not removable with surface care.

[0279] The stability against phase separation was investigated via visual observations. In contrast to Example 6, as already discussed above, the Comparative Example 17, in the absence of any microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) and any micronized wax (M.sub.p), shows clear and significant phase separation after 25 days at 20 C.

[0280] Furthermore, based on the experimental results shown in Table 9, the Comparative Example 17 does not demonstrate sufficient matting in the gloss level measurements (gloss value equal to 10.1). Good matting is said to be obtained when the measurement of the gloss level (expressed in gloss units, i.e. gloss units GU) at reflected light rays at 85 is less than 10 GU. The Example 6 according to the present invention has a gloss level equal to 7.7.

[0281] Furthermore, the Comparative Example 17 convincingly demonstrates a lower slip resistance when compared to Example 6 according to the present invention (with reference to the measurement setups of FIGS. 1-3).

[0282] The Comparative Example 17 further demonstrates a less good scrub resistance when compared to Example 6 in which both of the microcrystalline wax (W.sub.c) and the micronized wax (M.sub.p) are present. The experimental results as shown in Table 9 demonstrate that for the Comparative Example 17, wear already occurred at five series of 400 scrub cycles, whereas for Example 6 according to the present invention, six series of 400 scrub cycles were required before wear could be observed.