Hydrocarbon resins are used as tackifiers, performance modifiers and homogenizing agents. They are extensively used in the manufacture of rubbers, coatings, printing inks, and adhesives. The largest market for hydrocarbon resins are hot melts, PSA tapes and labels. They are important ingredients in many rubber adhesive formulations, particularly synthetic rubbers that are less tacky than natural rubber.
They improve tack, peel strength, and increase the glass transition temperature, which in turn improves shear strength. In paints, they provide superior pigment wetting, enhanced adhesion, gloss, and film hardness. They also improve flow and leveling, reduce VOCs and provide improved mildew and water resistance.