Influence of Two Types of Microcapsule Composites on the Performance of Thermochromic UV Coatings on Bleached Poplar Wood Surfaces

To meet the growing demand for intelligent surfaces in furniture and interior design, this study developed thermochromic UV coatings for bleached poplar. While conventional UV coatings are valued for their ecofriendliness and rapid curing, their functionality remains limited; integrating thermochromic capability offers a highly promising solution. We examined how the combination of two microcapsule systems (UF@TS and UF@TS-R) influenced the performance of UV coatings on bleached poplar by applying a two-primer/two-topcoat protocol with varied microcapsule loadings to impart color-changing behavior. The effects were then analyzed from multiple perspectives—type, application layer, and concentration gradient—covering optical and mechanical properties as well as thermochromic response. Results indicated that the optimum performance was achieved when UF@TS was incorporated into the UV topcoat and UF@TS-R into the UV primer at specific mass concentrations. The resulting coating delivered temperature-responsive color variation, providing both theoretical and technical support for developing high-value-added UV finishes for wooden furniture and advancing the use of fast-growing timber in high-end applications.