Abstract: A process for preparing a surfactant, useful for dispersing tackifier resins in aqueous media, comprises reacting an ??-unsaturated carboxylic acid or anhydride, or an ester thereof, with a terpene- or hydrocarbon-based resin to form an adduct, then reacting the adduct with a polyalkylene polyol to yield the surfactant. In a related embodiment, the surfactant is subsequently functionalized. Also disclosed are surfactants prepared using a disclosed process; compositions comprising a disclosed surfactant and a tackifier resin; aqueous dispersions comprising a disclosed surfactant; tackifier resin and water; adhesive compositions comprising a disclosed aqueous dispersion and a polymer latex; and pressure sensitive adhesive overlays prepared using a disclosed adhesive composition.

Abstract: Polymerized fatty acid-based polyamides may be combined with low polarity and high polarity co-solvents to produce homogeneous water-in-oil emulsions. These emulsions have the appearance of white or translucent creams, with stiffnessranging from soft and greasy, to hard and able to support weight. These emulsions are stable in the presence or absence of surfactant, and are formed easily by mixing components with heat and then cooling. These emulsions are useful in applications favoring an oil base, such as skin creams and cosmetics with emulsions of low stiffness, and car polish with emulsions of greater stiffness.