In paint manufacturing, viscosity plays a vital role in determining coating quality. A paint system with proper viscosity ensures smooth application, uniform coverage, and durable film formation. Conversely, paint that is too thin or too thick can cause application difficulties and uneven appearance. To control viscosity effectively, manufacturers use paint viscosity additives, also known as paint thickeners. These additives not only increase the body of the paint but also provide other benefits such as anti-settling, color retention, and improved gloss. This article introduces four widely used additives that help optimize viscosity in different paint systems.
THE ROLE OF VISCOSITY ADDITIVES
Viscosity directly affects paint application, film thickness, and stability. If not properly adjusted, paint can sag, lose color uniformity, or fail to maintain the desired layer thickness. These issues reduce both product quality and durability. Modern paint thickeners not only enhance viscosity but also improve pigment dispersion, color stability, and anti-sagging properties. Selecting the right additive is therefore crucial for achieving consistent coating performance and production efficiency.
HYDROXYETHYL CELLULOSE (HEC) FOR WATER-BASED PAINTS
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) belongs to the cellulose ether group and is a common water-based paint thickener. It is widely used in acrylic and vinyl paints, especially in wall coatings. HEC increases viscosity effectively at low to medium shear rates, making paint easier to apply with rollers or brushes. It also improves pigment dispersion, prevents settling, and minimizes sagging on vertical surfaces. Thanks to its cost efficiency, stability, and ease of use, HEC has become one of the most trusted paint viscosity additives in waterborne coating systems.
HEUR – HIGH-GLOSS THICKENER FOR PREMIUM WATER-BASED COATINGS
Hydrophobically Modified Ethoxylated Urethane (HEUR) is a polyurethane associative thickener. This additive is ideal for premium water-based paints requiring smoothness and gloss. HEUR enhances low-shear viscosity, offering excellent sag resistance and film control. Its major advantage lies in maintaining film clarity and delivering superior gloss without clouding. Additionally, HEUR is compatible with various resins, from acrylic to styrene-acrylic systems. It is considered a top choice for high-end decorative paints, providing a luxurious and long-lasting finish.
FUMED SILICA – NANO ADDITIVE FOR THIXOTROPY CONTROL
Fumed Silica is a nano-sized silica with a high surface area, commonly used in solvent-based, epoxy, polyurethane, and gel coat systems. Due to its particle structure, it delivers a strong thixotropic effect, meaning the paint’s viscosity changes under shear force. This property helps control flow, maintain film thickness, and prevent sagging in thick coatings. Fumed Silica also enhances smoothness, flexibility, and mechanical durability of the cured film. It is an essential additive in industrial coatings, especially where viscosity control and film stability are required for heavy-duty applications.
ORGANOCLAY – MODIFIED CLAY ADDITIVE FOR SOLVENT-BASED PAINTS
Organoclay is an organically modified natural clay, represented by products such as Bentone® 38. It is a highly effective solvent-based paint thickener, used in alkyd, polyurethane, and epoxy systems. Organoclay forms a gel network that significantly increases viscosity and provides long-term stability. It also improves pigment suspension, prevents settling, and minimizes phase separation during storage. As a result, coatings using Organoclay achieve superior uniformity and durability. This makes it a preferred viscosity additive for solvent-based paints requiring excellent flow control and system stability.
VICHEM – AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR OF HIGH-QUALITY COATING ADDITIVES IN VIETNAM
Vichem is an authorized distributor of high-quality coating additives in Vietnam. We provide not only certified products but also professional technical support and after-sales service meeting international standards. Our services include:
- Technical consulting: Helping customers choose the most suitable additives for their specific formulations.
- Quality testing: Our experts conduct performance tests to ensure consistent product standards.
- Application support: We assist clients in integrating additives into their production process for optimal results.
For more information about our products and services, please contact us through:
📞 Hotline: 08 1790 1790
📧 Email: contact@vichem.vn
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🌐 Website: www.vichem.vn
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