Ultrafine Minerals for Improved Film Performance in Modern Waterborne Coatings

Synopsis

The ever-changing regulatory environment within the Paint and Coatings Industry continues to drive the adaptation of technologies allowing formulators to meet VOC demands of both consumers and governmental entities. One area of growing popularity is with alkyd emulsion and alkyd /acrylic hybrid resin technologies used to formulate protective coatings. These said resins are being explored for both architectural and industrial applications where scratch and chemical resistant finishes with superior gloss and depth of image are required.
Ultrafine hydrous kaolin offers improved optical properties and film hardness in low VOC alkyd coatings. The narrow particle size distribution of the multi-functional pigment offers the ability to effectively space TiO2 as well as organic pigments in masstone clean shades. Additionally, total PVC and volume solids can be increased without adversely effecting gloss, while improving the curing mechanism of films. Because hydrous clay is highly hydroxylated, the use of high shear thickener or thixotropes can be reduced or eliminated in waterborne coatings while maintaining the desired rheology.