Leveling agent

Leveling agent is a commonly used coating additive, mainly used to improve the surface flowability and leveling performance of coatings during the drying and film-forming process. The following is a detailed introduction about leveling agents:

Definition and Function

• definition:Leveling agent, also known as leveling agent in English, is a substance that can effectively reduce the surface tension of coating liquid, improve its leveling and uniformity.

• function：

1. Promote the formation of a flat, smooth, and uniform coating during the drying and film-forming process of the paint.

2. Improve the permeability of the coating solution and reduce the possibility of spots and marks during brushing.

3. Increase coverage to achieve uniform and natural film formation.

Main components

• Leveling agents are mainly composed of surfactants, organic solvents, etc.

• According to their different chemical structures, leveling agents can be divided into acrylic, organosilicon, and fluorocarbon compounds.

Classification and Application

• Classified by mechanism of action：

1. Leveling agents used to adjust the viscosity and leveling time of paint films, such as high boiling organic solvents or their mixtures, such as isophorone, diacetone alcohol, etc.

2. Leveling agent for adjusting the surface properties of paint film: It migrates to the surface of the paint film through limited compatibility, affecting surface properties such as interfacial tension of the paint film, and achieving good leveling of the paint film.

• Classified by application field：

1. High boiling point solvents or butyl cellulose are commonly used in solvent based coating agents.

2. In water-based coating agents, surfactants such as polyacrylic acid and carboxymethyl cellulose are used.

Usage and precautions

• usage method:The addition amount is determined based on the specific coating formula and application, generally ranging from 0.1% to 1% of the total coating amount. Before use, the leveling agent should be mixed evenly with the coating or other liquid, and methods such as high-speed stirring or grinding can be used.

• matters needing attention：

1. Different types of coatings may require different types of leveling agents, so careful selection is necessary before use.

2. Strictly control the amount of additives, excessive or insufficient additives may affect the performance of the coating.

3. When using leveling agents, safety precautions should be taken to avoid direct contact with the skin and eyes.

advantage

• Leveling agents have various advantages, such as improving the leveling performance of coatings, increasing the smoothness and flatness of coatings, enhancing the wetting and adhesion of coatings, reducing coating cracking and peeling, lowering the surface tension of coatings, and improving the water resistance and weather resistance of coatings.

conclusion

Leveling agents, as an important coating additive, play an irreplaceable role in the coating industry. By using leveling agents reasonably, the performance and quality of coatings can be significantly improved, meeting the needs of various application scenarios.