Abstract: Phenol aralkyistion polymers can be prepared by reaction among a phenolic monomer, at least one styrenic monomer and an aryl diolefin. A phenolic monomer can be initially aralkylated in the presence of an acid catalyst with a first portion of at least one styrenic monomer to obtain an aralkylated phenol. The aralkylated phenol thereafter can be reacted with an aryl diolefin to obtain a phenol aralkylation polymer. Optionally, (though preferably) the phenol aralkylation polymer is further aralkylated with a second portion of at least one styrenic monomer. By employing specific catalyst concentrations, reactant concentrations, reaction temperatures, and reaction times, the formation of mono-functional and non-functional by-products is substantially reduced.

Abstract: Phenolic aralkylation polymers modified by esterification with fatty acids, transesterification with glyceride oils, or other modifications to reactive hydroxyl moieties to improve the characteristics and properties of coating systems in which the modified materials are incorporated. At least a portion of the hydroxyl moieties of the polyol is esterified or otherwise modified. The hydroxyl moieties include those that have been "chain-extended," if desired.