Selection of Wetting and Leveling Agents in Waterborne Wood Paint Formulations

In the formulation of water-based wood paint, wetting leveling agents can effectively reduce the surface tension of the system and significantly improve the application effect of water-based wood paint. After adding a wetting leveling agent, the wetting performance and permeability of the paint on the substrate increase, and the leveling performance of the paint solution is greatly improved. It can also overcome the problem of edge shrinkage (mirror frame effect).

More importantly, leveling agents can solve common shrinkage problems, especially those caused by excessive use of defoamers. Excessive leveling agents can counteract the defoaming effect of defoamers, causing bubbles to form in the paint during construction. Some even have a significant foam stabilizing effect, so it is advisable to choose wetting leveling agents with good leveling properties, low foaming properties, and low foam stability.

The combination of leveling agents and defoamers, including the selection of varieties and control of dosage, is the focus of research on water-based wood paint formulations.

The ideal wetting agent should include the following aspects:

1. Effectively reducing the surface tension ability of the system, improving its wettability and permeability to the substrate.

2. Minimize foaming and stabilize foam as much as possible.

3. Minimize water sensitivity as much as possible.

4. Does not affect interlayer adhesion.

5. Good surface tension balance can improve substrate wetting without affecting leveling or causing defects due to excessive reduction of surface tension.

Water based resin manufacturers remind you that the general dosage of leveling agent is 0.1% to 1.0%, preferably controlled at around 0.3%. When the defoamer exceeds the limit, in order to overcome shrinkage, the dosage of leveling agent may even exceed 1%. Leveling agents are not required in the putty formula.