Clariant has announced a breakthrough in the achievement of easy-application biocide-free mineral paints with the launch of new advanced stabilizers: APEO-free Dispersogen SPS and renewable-based, VOC-free1 Dispersogen SPG.

Silicate and new generation organosilicate paints offer an attractive alternative to dispersion paints for indoor environments, because they do not require biocides to protect the formulation against bacterial growth in-can and molds and algae after application. Biocides are a known cause of allergens. However, one of the major drawbacks of mineral paints is their viscosity and texture behavior during use and storage. This leads to well-recognized difficulties in stirring and applying biocide-free mineral paints.

Clariant is now successfully overcoming the challenges with two new stabilizers, APEO-free Dispersogen SPS and renewable-based, VOC-free Dispersogen SPG. They offer a step change in the current stability performance and rheology profile of silicate and organosilicate paints. Both products are suitable for paints which are certified by an ecolabel, such as the German Blue Angel, the European Ecoflower or the Nordic Swan. In addition, Dispersogen SPG also carries the Clariant EcoTain label in recognition of its outstanding sustainability profile. EcoTain® is Clariant’s label for sustainability excellence products and solutions that significantly exceed sustainability market standards, have best-in-class performance and contribute overall to sustainability efforts of the company and its customers.

The Dispersogen SPS/SPG combination offers a number of advantages compared to the current benchmark two-product stabilizer system. Extensive testing in organosilicate paints confirms that there is less change in viscosity over time and the formulation shows less thickening during storage. Mineral paint based on Dispersogen SPS/SPG has an enhanced rheology profile which makes it easier both to stir or homogenize before use and to apply onto a surface with a brush or roller. The extent of brush or roller marks, also known as leveling performance, is comparable to the current benchmark.

Clariant offers Dispersogen SPS as a standalone stabilizer for manufacturers looking to go to the next level by offering even easier application and smoother surface results from their mineral paint formulation.

Alexander Snell, Head of Sales Industrial Applications, Clariant Business Unit Industrial & Consumer Specialties, comments: “With our new Dispersogen stabilizers, Clariant has achieved a valuable breakthough in improving the storage and useability of silicate and organosilicate paints. Mineral paints are a major advance in terms of fulfilling consumer health requirements, and these new advantages will contribute to making biocide-free paints an even more attractive option for decorating interiors and improving indoor environments.”

Clariant will present the new Dispersogen stabilizers for the first time at the European Coatings Show, Booth 7-123, Nuremberg Exhibition Center from April 4-6, 2017.