Abstract: | A convenient synthetic procedure for preparing nickel carboxylated phthalocyanine is reported. Upon further hydroxylation, such metal phthalocyanine moieties are incorporated into several melamine-based polyester high-solids systems and the structure—property correlations are examined. Molecular level spectroscopic FTIR analysis and mechanical testing are correlated in an effort to establish structure—property relations in these coatings. It is found that the presence of metal phthalocyanine macrocycle as a cross-linking agent enhances such properties as adhesion, hardness, and impact resistance. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. |