06.04.18
This month Coatings World interviewed a number of key suppliers of performance enhancing additives. These include: Mark Piggott, senior account manager, Arkema Coating Resins; Katie Fagan, marketing manager, Formulation Additives, BASF and Shiona Stewart, industry marketing manager-Transportation, Industrial, Furniture, and Floor Coatings, BASF; Brendan Cullinan, Brenntag North America ACES technology director; Dr. Guillaume Jaunky, head of TG Surface, BYK and Mark Heekeren, head of TS Surface, BYK; Dave Grabacki, president, keim additec surface USA; Scott A. Brown, global technical manager, Materials Performance and Protection, Lonza; John McAllister, global director of sales, Micro Powders Inc.; Joon Choo, vice president, Shamrock Technologies; Frank Cangelosi, Ph.D., vice president, marketing, Troy; and Scott VanRemortel, technical sales manager, Unimin,
Coatings World: What types of performance enhancing additives does your company offer?
Arkema: Arkema Coating Resins produces functional coating additives for non-aqueous decorative and industrial coatings, sealants, inks, and defoamers for paint.
CRAYVALLAC coating additives include rheology modifiers, surface modifiers, and flow and leveling agents.
BASF: BASF has a broad portfolio of light stabilizing and UV absorbing technologies as well as formulation additives that enhance application properties, such as rheological profile, surface aesthetics and appearance, and color integrity for many types of coating chemistries. Our extensive family of enabling additives are targeted to provide superior performance for coatings that have been optimized to meet the demanding environments encountered in the Transportation, Industrial, Decorative, and Flooring Markets. Our light stabilizing and UV absorbing technologies include a wide range of benzotriazole, triazine, and hindered amine light stabilizer chemistries as well as specialty offerings such as a new and unique photolatent metal catalyst targeted for 2K polyurethane coating systems.
Brenntag: Brenntag North America sells the entire line of additives – thickeners, emulsifiers, defoamers, antifoams, dispersants, wetting agents, leveling agents, pigments, photostabilizers, biocides/preservatives – soup to nuts. Additives provide improved properties and aesthetics to a formulation, adding both form and function. Brenntag’s lines of additives provide solutions for pigment stabilization, foam control, and enhanced surface properties and rheology control in aqueous, solvent-borne and solvent-free formulations. We also offer low VOC and APEO-free additives to comply to environmental regulations.
BYK: BYK offers a broad portfolio of innovative additives that open up new opportunities for the coating and ink formulator. These include wetting and dispersing additives which stabilize matting agents very efficiently, or products with less impact on corrosion properties or on the stain resistance of the coatings. Surface additives based on macromonomer-modified acrylates create a wide range of new possibilities for multi-layer applications.
keim additec: keimgroup with its affiliated producing companies keim additec surface, silcona, euroceras and ceronas is offering besides a broad variety of aqueous ULTRALUBE wax additives and high performance SILCO coating additives also different types of solid / micronized waxes under the brand names CERALENE and mju:wax.
Lonza: We offer additives to protect coatings from microbial attack for in-can, dry film and plant hygiene applications.
Micro Powders: Micro Powders offers a wide range of wax additives designed to provide surface protection, gloss reduction, texture, soft touch and waterbeading for industrial and architectural finishes. The majority of our waxes are micronized powders, but we also offer aqueous wax dispersions and emulsions.
Shamrock Technologies: Shamrock Technologies offers slip additives including PTFE, waxes, wax blends, compounds, dispersions and emulsions.
Troy: Troy offers performance enhancing additives for a wide range of coating properties. Troysol wetting and flow & leveling additives, Troysperse dispersants, Troykyd defoaming additives, and Troythix rheology modifiers all play important roles in applied coatings. These advanced additives perform functions such as controlling and enhancing coating appearance, promoting excellent product application and stability, and improving resistance properties, including mar and slip.
Many of Troy’s performance additives are multifunctional, accomplishing the tasks of several different additive types, in one product.
Unimin: Unimin / Sibelco offers a complete selection of mineral filler additives for gloss control, UV stability, flame and smoke suppression, UV/EB cure synergy plus transparency, and food packaging coatings. Global sales, distribution, and manufacturing networks are in place.
CW: Given the added cost associated with these types of additives, what are the benefits to the customer?
Arkema: CRAYVALLAC additives offer value-added properties, such as improved matting, anti-abrasion, slip and rub, sanding and texturing. They are available around the globe and are offer superior pigment dispersion, viscosity control and long-term stabilization.
BASF: Our Tinuvin branded chemistries offer extended protection from UV degradation, truly differentiated protection for carbon fiber-reinforced plastics or glass fiber-reinforced plastics where fibers are embedded in an epoxy matrix requiring outstanding photopermanence and protection, and low to near-zero migration throughout the coating and substrate with no exudation in polar solventborne systems. Importantly, our Tinuvin chemistries, through the use of our patented BASF Tinuvin Novel Encapsulation Additive Technology, or “NEAT” encapsulation technology, are also able to be modified for use in waterborne coatings. The versatility and flexibility of our portfolio offers our customers the ability to select the optimum product offering for their unique formulation space.
Brenntag: Most coatings systems are unusable without additives. Film defects are almost always experienced in unmodified films. A critical parameter in the formation of these defects is localized surface tension gradients which physically form the defect and hold it while the film dries. This is as much physics as it is chemistry. Virtually all coating systems need good leveling and flow to have a desired appearance.
BYK: The structure of silicone macromonomer-based additives can provide a moderate to very strong reduction in the surface energy of the cured coating so that slip properties can be adjusted or easy-to-clean performance can be obtained. Other structures based on hydrophilic macromonomers, on the contrary, can increase the surface energy of the cured systems - irrespective of whether the systems are solvent-borne, waterborne, UV or 100% solid.
keim additec: The broad product portfolios of the different companies within the group ensures the possibility of a very precise adjustment of the desired surface properties to achieve with the particular types; besides this several types of additives can be supplied out of “one-hand”.
Lonza: The cost of the microbial control additive is minimal compared to the value of the formulation. It is more often about avoiding undesirable impacts on the formulation and protecting the value that the formulator builds into the formulation. However, the choice of microbial control additives will have an impact on features such as VOC and eco toxicity, which are regulated by EPA. For example, MIT is a commonly used preservative ingredient, however it can show up as a VOC, and this downside might more than offset its benefit in the preserved product formulation.
Micro Powders: High performance finishes require a solid foundation and that’s the proper selection of a resin binder. Additives are what you use to fine tune the formula to meet demanding specifications. In the case of wax additives, the best practice is to use the most efficient product; at a lowest percent addition, which will have less impact on the in-formulation cost. Very often these are composite waxes.
Shamrock Technologies: Shamrock Performance Additives provide specific end properties such as slip control, mar and abrasion resistance, matting, and texturing/feel to our customers’ end products. These enable our customers to expand their product portfolio to meet their downstream needs.
Troy: While there is a small cost associated with the use of additives, it is far outweighed by the benefits added to the finished product. The reality is that a usable coating cannot be manufactured and applied without the use of performance additives. For instance, stability of a liquid coating would be dramatically shorter without the use of dispersing and rheological additives. Color would be weak and opacity would be poor without dispersing additives. Additionally, the ability of a coating to wet contaminated or low surface energy substrates such as plastics would be difficult if not impossible without wetting additives.
There is a large value added to the final coating product with the proper selection and optimized use of high-quality performance additives, such as those offered by Troy Corporation.
Unimin: Natural and precipitated mineral filler additives provide excellent property enhancements with the best or competitive economics compared to many synthetic additive options. Benefits include gloss control, UV resistance, flame and smoke suppression, UV cure compatibility, surface hardness, water spot resistance, and scratch resistance.
CW: What considerations should formulators make when choosing a performance enhancing additive?
Arkema: When choosing the right additive, formulators should consider the following:
• Is it a solvent based or solvent free formulation? Additives
are typically designed for one or the other.
• If it is a solvent-based formulation, what is the nature of
the solvent? This will help identify the best possible addi-
tive solution.
• What is the resin system or chemistry (acrylic, polyester,
epoxy, etc)?
• Is the coating pigmented or does it contain fillers? If it
does not, Arkema typically recommends the use of a pre-
activated paste.
• Once the above questions have been answered, it is a mat-
ter of determining desired performance attributes. Do you
need anti-settling and sag control, for example?
• Finally, formulators should take the processing equipment
used in the final product into account. Does the equipment
allow for temperature control? What is the mixer speed or
blade configuration?
All of these factors help a formulator identify the proper additive for their formulation. At Arkema, we help them address each of these and recommend the Crayvallac additive that best meets their application needs.
BASF: There are many critical determinations that need to be considered when selecting the appropriate additives. Is the intended coating waterborne, solventborne, UV curable, or powder? Is the intended substrate known or are multiple substrates in consideration such as metal, plastic, composites, wood, and concrete? Environmental exposure should also be considered and fully understood to determine what type of UV resistance is needed, especially for harsh exterior environments. This is especially important when selecting additives that will be used in automotive coatings and exterior decking applications. Maintaining color integrity and resistance to fading as well as preventing delamination and gloss reduction from occurring due to years of sun and UV ray exposure in coatings is where BASF brings value to our customers.
Brenntag: The formulator must know completely the performance parameters required prior to choosing the system components he/she will formulate. The most common considerations when choosing an additive are rheology, VOC, HAPs, foam stability, process rate, temperature and moisture, long term protection, etc. Formulators perform checklists to ensure optimum performance, and Brenntag is the right partner to provide technical support and formulation consultancy. For example, without adhesion, a coating is ineffective. Flow and leveling agents control the surface tension at all boundaries and interfaces maximizing surface coverage and physical properties. Foam is rarely desired in a coating. Foam control is therefore essential. Filler and pigment dispersions provide aesthetics and reinforcement. Mar resistant additives ensure better durability without sacrificing film properties.
BYK: The formulator must know his real target. An increase in surface energy has its greatest benefit when a further layer or adhesives are applied on top of the coating for which these additives are used.
keim additec: Besides satisfying the general technical needs at an adequate price/performance ratio especially more and more requests reaching us for environmentally acceptable (“green”) additives. We are facing this challenge by offering formulated products e.g. being VOC-free, without amines or other hazardous ingredients.
Lonza: Microbial control additives, in common with many other types of additives, require a significant investment of time and effort to evaluate initially and then roll out into commercial use. In cases where the additive has to be replaced again a year or two later, the full value of that invested time and effort is not realized. Formulators should therefore consider if the additives are “future proof” and if so represent viable long-term options. In the case of microbial control additives, it is therefore important to consider changes on the horizon for biocide regulations, and to select additive options which are likely to survive even if today’s regulatory trends later manifest as tomorrow’s new regulations.
Micro Powders: For wax additives, the formulator must first determine the film properties that need to be optimized; and consider factors such batch temperature, application and cure method, substrate, film thickness, level of gloss and how the finish will be tested. Wax additives come in many compositions, particle sizes and melting points, and considering these factors will help the formulator make a good product selection.
Shamrock Technologies: Formulators should be focusing on the entire value proposition. More and more emphasis is now placed on the efficacy of the additive, as well as the sustainability and impact on the environment.
Troy: Formulators and additives suppliers should maintain an open dialog to ensure that the right additive or additives are selected to achieve the desired property enhancements.
Performance additives must be optimized to perform their necessary functions, and do so efficiently. The use levels and methods of incorporation provided by the additive supplier should be followed carefully. Full-service performance additives suppliers like Troy are always willing to support their customers and offer any technical support required.
Unimin: Considerations are: 1: Compatibility with current system and contribution to desired effect; 2: Are there side effects, and if there are, do the benefits outweigh the time to adjust or include other additives?; 3: Is there a simpler solution? and 4: Health and safety.
CW: Please provide a brief description of up to two new performance enhancing additives?
Arkema: CRAYVALLAC LV is a third-generation polyamide rheology modifier with easy activation and high performance in solvent free systems. It is designed for use in Solvent free epoxy and polyurethane coatings for marine, protective and general industrial applications, as well as industrial wood coatings. It exhibits easier activation and higher performance when compared to previous generation polyamide rheology modifiers. Formulation benefits include excellent sag resistance and very good shear thinning for spray application of coating
CRAYVALLAC OPTIMA is a third-generation polyamide rheology modifier with wider activation window in high solids epoxies. It is primarily used in hot spray applications in marine, protective and general industrial applications where good sag during application or onto hot substrates is needed. It exhibits a wider activation window than second generation polyamide rheology modifiers, good hot spray application tolerance, excellent intercoat adhesion resistance and high sag resistance.
BASF: Solyfast 0010 is an organotin-free photolatent metal catalyst recommended for use in curing 2-component polyurethane systems and provides a wide variety of benefits due to its unique ability to cure “on demand” at low energy (ambient) temperatures. This performance benefit addresses the issues associated with having to heat very large objects, such as the wing of an airplane, or heat-sensitive parts such as plastic components, or even heavy metal exterior structures. Solyfast 0010 will also increase production productivity via faster throughput, and short handling or moving times of recently coated parts.
Tinuvin 249 is a non-basic hindered amine light stabilizer designed to meet the high performance requirements of solventborne automotive, industrial, or decorative coatings that demand superior formulation compatibility and outstanding thermal, color, and shelf stability.
Efka PX 4780 / 4787 is a new, high-performance reactive dispersant that provides superior dispersing efficiency as seen in development of color and viscosity suppression for organic pigments. In particular, it demonstrates differentiated dispersing performance with carbon black pigments. The value of this dispersant is further realized when used in a polyurethane coating where its dispersing power is complemented by its ability to react into the polymer matrix
Brenntag: 1) Natural essential oils will be the next generation of bactericides and preservatives. Wood is processed with preservatives to extend its life. Harnessing many of nature’s naturally occurring, and safe, conjugated aldehydes, are shown to exhibit extensive antimicrobial abilities, particularly regarding control of fungi growth and negating effects of gram-positive bacterium. The adjuvant complement of naturally-derived essential oils in anti-bacterial packages should provide safe, effective and positive long-term effects, further proving Mother Nature is the world’s greatest chemist. 2) A home represents one’s most important investment and tangible asset. Innovative approaches to ‘building envelopes’ are showing long-term, positive investment returns. Building components are engineered to resist the devastating effects of corrosion on metal, and resist moisture, mold, and wood ingesting insects on wood. Greater building protection from fire, heat and through innovations in intumescing resins and additives, and heat resistance resins, are forming a new level of performance standard consumers are demanding. Construction wood and metal that is pre-coated with antimicrobial, anti-termitic and corrosion resistant properties will increase in demand, as well.
BYK: Numerous unresolved issues and challenges with over-coatability in the coating industry were the driving force and motivation for developing the hydrophilic additive concept. BYK-3560 increases the surface energy of cured coatings overall, especially the polarity, thus achieving an improvement in the adhesion of subsequent layers in applications such as automotive multilayer coatings, lamination foils, adhesives, printing inks etc. The next development BYK-3565 incorporates additional beneficial effects to the hydrophilic properties. The challenge consisted not only in increasing the surface energy unilaterally, but also in visibly improving the coating’s anti-crater properties.
keim addict: SILCO OZ 100 is an open time extender for paints and coatings. The product provides additionally gloss enhancement as well as wetting properties without effecting the stain resistance or hardness of the film.
Lonza: Lonza has recently launched Proxel Spektra Preservative in North America. Proxel Spektra Preservative is a dual-active, broad spectrum biocide for the wet-state preservation of industrial water-based products. This preservative is a combination of 1, 2- benzisothiazolin- 3-one (BIT) and sodium pyrithione and benefits from the use of these two complementary active agents making it particularly effective in preserving industrial products against spoilage caused by bacteria, yeasts and mold (fungi). Proxel Spektra Preservative is free from formaldehyde, MIT and bronopol with minimal heavy metal content. It is a low-viscosity solution that is pH and temperature stable and can be easily incorporated into a wide range of industrial applications.
Densil ZOD Antimicrobial represents a new dry-film preservative option which is consistent with trends associated with a significant lowering of carbendazim (BCM) levels in preserved product formulations. This product was designed to provide robust long-term film protection through the pairing of the durable, long-term, slow-leaching, low-water solubility properties of zinc pyrithione with a secondary more water-soluble fungicide and a supplemental algaecide. This product offers complete BCM-free dry-film protection.
Micro Powders: Micro Powders recently introduced two new composite waxes; Polyfluo 900 and Polyfluo 523AL. Polyfluo 900 is a micronized melt composite of low density polyethylene, PTFE and ultrafine ceramic. Polyfluo 900 is designed to provide excellent abrasion resistance in industrial finishes as well as burnish resistance and soil release in architectural wall paints. Polyfluo 523AL is a micronized melt composite of high density polyethylene, PTFE and nano alumina. Polyfluo 523AL offers excellent scratch and abrasion resistance as well as COF reduction in industrial finishes. Both waxes can be used in aqueous and non-aqueous liquid paints as well as energy cure and powder coatings.
Shamrock Technologies: S-156 is a modified polyethylene wax developed for great compatibility, ease of dispersability and stability in formulation. This product provides abrasion resistance and scratch resistance. It may also be used to aid anti-blocking and sand-ability in sanding sealers. S-156 is designed for use in water-based, UV and solvent-based formulations for wood, furniture, and industrial coatings.
Hydrocer 135 is an aqueous amide wax dispersion formulated for water based coating systems requiring slip, release, ease of incorporation and anti-blocking. The amide wax also provide hydrophobicity to coatings applied on a variety of substrates including paper, plastics, wood and metal.
Troy: Troy has recently introduced Troysperse ZWD1 and ZWD3 – two new, high-performance, ‘green’ aqueous dispersants. Troysperse ZWD1 and ZWD3 were developed specifically for organic and carbon black pigment dispersing. Compared with conventional aqueous dispersants, Troysperse ZWD1 and ZWD3 offer fast, highly effective dispersing at up to 50% lower use levels. This translates into exceptionally low cost-in-use for the coating or dispersion manufacturer.
Unimin: Unimin / Sibelco has developed and commercialized ultrafine, ultra-clear mineral filler additives for UV/EB cure Aqueous and 100% solids wood, industrial, packaging and ink applications. They provide enhanced UV/EB cure efficiency, surface hardness, antiblock and economics at high loadings. Additionally, they help minimize the amount of photoiniator required for curing as they act as UV cure synergist with the photoinitiators.
Unimin / Sibelco has developed lower viscosity natural mineral filler additives for powder coatings based on ATH (alumina trihydrate), barite and nepheline to reduce water spotting, enhance gloss and gloss control.
Coatings World: What types of performance enhancing additives does your company offer?
Arkema: Arkema Coating Resins produces functional coating additives for non-aqueous decorative and industrial coatings, sealants, inks, and defoamers for paint.
CRAYVALLAC coating additives include rheology modifiers, surface modifiers, and flow and leveling agents.
BASF: BASF has a broad portfolio of light stabilizing and UV absorbing technologies as well as formulation additives that enhance application properties, such as rheological profile, surface aesthetics and appearance, and color integrity for many types of coating chemistries. Our extensive family of enabling additives are targeted to provide superior performance for coatings that have been optimized to meet the demanding environments encountered in the Transportation, Industrial, Decorative, and Flooring Markets. Our light stabilizing and UV absorbing technologies include a wide range of benzotriazole, triazine, and hindered amine light stabilizer chemistries as well as specialty offerings such as a new and unique photolatent metal catalyst targeted for 2K polyurethane coating systems.
Brenntag: Brenntag North America sells the entire line of additives – thickeners, emulsifiers, defoamers, antifoams, dispersants, wetting agents, leveling agents, pigments, photostabilizers, biocides/preservatives – soup to nuts. Additives provide improved properties and aesthetics to a formulation, adding both form and function. Brenntag’s lines of additives provide solutions for pigment stabilization, foam control, and enhanced surface properties and rheology control in aqueous, solvent-borne and solvent-free formulations. We also offer low VOC and APEO-free additives to comply to environmental regulations.
BYK: BYK offers a broad portfolio of innovative additives that open up new opportunities for the coating and ink formulator. These include wetting and dispersing additives which stabilize matting agents very efficiently, or products with less impact on corrosion properties or on the stain resistance of the coatings. Surface additives based on macromonomer-modified acrylates create a wide range of new possibilities for multi-layer applications.
keim additec: keimgroup with its affiliated producing companies keim additec surface, silcona, euroceras and ceronas is offering besides a broad variety of aqueous ULTRALUBE wax additives and high performance SILCO coating additives also different types of solid / micronized waxes under the brand names CERALENE and mju:wax.
Lonza: We offer additives to protect coatings from microbial attack for in-can, dry film and plant hygiene applications.
Micro Powders: Micro Powders offers a wide range of wax additives designed to provide surface protection, gloss reduction, texture, soft touch and waterbeading for industrial and architectural finishes. The majority of our waxes are micronized powders, but we also offer aqueous wax dispersions and emulsions.
Shamrock Technologies: Shamrock Technologies offers slip additives including PTFE, waxes, wax blends, compounds, dispersions and emulsions.
Troy: Troy offers performance enhancing additives for a wide range of coating properties. Troysol wetting and flow & leveling additives, Troysperse dispersants, Troykyd defoaming additives, and Troythix rheology modifiers all play important roles in applied coatings. These advanced additives perform functions such as controlling and enhancing coating appearance, promoting excellent product application and stability, and improving resistance properties, including mar and slip.
Many of Troy’s performance additives are multifunctional, accomplishing the tasks of several different additive types, in one product.
Unimin: Unimin / Sibelco offers a complete selection of mineral filler additives for gloss control, UV stability, flame and smoke suppression, UV/EB cure synergy plus transparency, and food packaging coatings. Global sales, distribution, and manufacturing networks are in place.
CW: Given the added cost associated with these types of additives, what are the benefits to the customer?
Arkema: CRAYVALLAC additives offer value-added properties, such as improved matting, anti-abrasion, slip and rub, sanding and texturing. They are available around the globe and are offer superior pigment dispersion, viscosity control and long-term stabilization.
BASF: Our Tinuvin branded chemistries offer extended protection from UV degradation, truly differentiated protection for carbon fiber-reinforced plastics or glass fiber-reinforced plastics where fibers are embedded in an epoxy matrix requiring outstanding photopermanence and protection, and low to near-zero migration throughout the coating and substrate with no exudation in polar solventborne systems. Importantly, our Tinuvin chemistries, through the use of our patented BASF Tinuvin Novel Encapsulation Additive Technology, or “NEAT” encapsulation technology, are also able to be modified for use in waterborne coatings. The versatility and flexibility of our portfolio offers our customers the ability to select the optimum product offering for their unique formulation space.
Brenntag: Most coatings systems are unusable without additives. Film defects are almost always experienced in unmodified films. A critical parameter in the formation of these defects is localized surface tension gradients which physically form the defect and hold it while the film dries. This is as much physics as it is chemistry. Virtually all coating systems need good leveling and flow to have a desired appearance.
BYK: The structure of silicone macromonomer-based additives can provide a moderate to very strong reduction in the surface energy of the cured coating so that slip properties can be adjusted or easy-to-clean performance can be obtained. Other structures based on hydrophilic macromonomers, on the contrary, can increase the surface energy of the cured systems - irrespective of whether the systems are solvent-borne, waterborne, UV or 100% solid.
keim additec: The broad product portfolios of the different companies within the group ensures the possibility of a very precise adjustment of the desired surface properties to achieve with the particular types; besides this several types of additives can be supplied out of “one-hand”.
Lonza: The cost of the microbial control additive is minimal compared to the value of the formulation. It is more often about avoiding undesirable impacts on the formulation and protecting the value that the formulator builds into the formulation. However, the choice of microbial control additives will have an impact on features such as VOC and eco toxicity, which are regulated by EPA. For example, MIT is a commonly used preservative ingredient, however it can show up as a VOC, and this downside might more than offset its benefit in the preserved product formulation.
Micro Powders: High performance finishes require a solid foundation and that’s the proper selection of a resin binder. Additives are what you use to fine tune the formula to meet demanding specifications. In the case of wax additives, the best practice is to use the most efficient product; at a lowest percent addition, which will have less impact on the in-formulation cost. Very often these are composite waxes.
Shamrock Technologies: Shamrock Performance Additives provide specific end properties such as slip control, mar and abrasion resistance, matting, and texturing/feel to our customers’ end products. These enable our customers to expand their product portfolio to meet their downstream needs.
Troy: While there is a small cost associated with the use of additives, it is far outweighed by the benefits added to the finished product. The reality is that a usable coating cannot be manufactured and applied without the use of performance additives. For instance, stability of a liquid coating would be dramatically shorter without the use of dispersing and rheological additives. Color would be weak and opacity would be poor without dispersing additives. Additionally, the ability of a coating to wet contaminated or low surface energy substrates such as plastics would be difficult if not impossible without wetting additives.
There is a large value added to the final coating product with the proper selection and optimized use of high-quality performance additives, such as those offered by Troy Corporation.
Unimin: Natural and precipitated mineral filler additives provide excellent property enhancements with the best or competitive economics compared to many synthetic additive options. Benefits include gloss control, UV resistance, flame and smoke suppression, UV cure compatibility, surface hardness, water spot resistance, and scratch resistance.
CW: What considerations should formulators make when choosing a performance enhancing additive?
Arkema: When choosing the right additive, formulators should consider the following:
• Is it a solvent based or solvent free formulation? Additives
are typically designed for one or the other.
• If it is a solvent-based formulation, what is the nature of
the solvent? This will help identify the best possible addi-
tive solution.
• What is the resin system or chemistry (acrylic, polyester,
epoxy, etc)?
• Is the coating pigmented or does it contain fillers? If it
does not, Arkema typically recommends the use of a pre-
activated paste.
• Once the above questions have been answered, it is a mat-
ter of determining desired performance attributes. Do you
need anti-settling and sag control, for example?
• Finally, formulators should take the processing equipment
used in the final product into account. Does the equipment
allow for temperature control? What is the mixer speed or
blade configuration?
All of these factors help a formulator identify the proper additive for their formulation. At Arkema, we help them address each of these and recommend the Crayvallac additive that best meets their application needs.
BASF: There are many critical determinations that need to be considered when selecting the appropriate additives. Is the intended coating waterborne, solventborne, UV curable, or powder? Is the intended substrate known or are multiple substrates in consideration such as metal, plastic, composites, wood, and concrete? Environmental exposure should also be considered and fully understood to determine what type of UV resistance is needed, especially for harsh exterior environments. This is especially important when selecting additives that will be used in automotive coatings and exterior decking applications. Maintaining color integrity and resistance to fading as well as preventing delamination and gloss reduction from occurring due to years of sun and UV ray exposure in coatings is where BASF brings value to our customers.
Brenntag: The formulator must know completely the performance parameters required prior to choosing the system components he/she will formulate. The most common considerations when choosing an additive are rheology, VOC, HAPs, foam stability, process rate, temperature and moisture, long term protection, etc. Formulators perform checklists to ensure optimum performance, and Brenntag is the right partner to provide technical support and formulation consultancy. For example, without adhesion, a coating is ineffective. Flow and leveling agents control the surface tension at all boundaries and interfaces maximizing surface coverage and physical properties. Foam is rarely desired in a coating. Foam control is therefore essential. Filler and pigment dispersions provide aesthetics and reinforcement. Mar resistant additives ensure better durability without sacrificing film properties.
BYK: The formulator must know his real target. An increase in surface energy has its greatest benefit when a further layer or adhesives are applied on top of the coating for which these additives are used.
keim additec: Besides satisfying the general technical needs at an adequate price/performance ratio especially more and more requests reaching us for environmentally acceptable (“green”) additives. We are facing this challenge by offering formulated products e.g. being VOC-free, without amines or other hazardous ingredients.
Lonza: Microbial control additives, in common with many other types of additives, require a significant investment of time and effort to evaluate initially and then roll out into commercial use. In cases where the additive has to be replaced again a year or two later, the full value of that invested time and effort is not realized. Formulators should therefore consider if the additives are “future proof” and if so represent viable long-term options. In the case of microbial control additives, it is therefore important to consider changes on the horizon for biocide regulations, and to select additive options which are likely to survive even if today’s regulatory trends later manifest as tomorrow’s new regulations.
Micro Powders: For wax additives, the formulator must first determine the film properties that need to be optimized; and consider factors such batch temperature, application and cure method, substrate, film thickness, level of gloss and how the finish will be tested. Wax additives come in many compositions, particle sizes and melting points, and considering these factors will help the formulator make a good product selection.
Shamrock Technologies: Formulators should be focusing on the entire value proposition. More and more emphasis is now placed on the efficacy of the additive, as well as the sustainability and impact on the environment.
Troy: Formulators and additives suppliers should maintain an open dialog to ensure that the right additive or additives are selected to achieve the desired property enhancements.
Performance additives must be optimized to perform their necessary functions, and do so efficiently. The use levels and methods of incorporation provided by the additive supplier should be followed carefully. Full-service performance additives suppliers like Troy are always willing to support their customers and offer any technical support required.
Unimin: Considerations are: 1: Compatibility with current system and contribution to desired effect; 2: Are there side effects, and if there are, do the benefits outweigh the time to adjust or include other additives?; 3: Is there a simpler solution? and 4: Health and safety.
CW: Please provide a brief description of up to two new performance enhancing additives?
Arkema: CRAYVALLAC LV is a third-generation polyamide rheology modifier with easy activation and high performance in solvent free systems. It is designed for use in Solvent free epoxy and polyurethane coatings for marine, protective and general industrial applications, as well as industrial wood coatings. It exhibits easier activation and higher performance when compared to previous generation polyamide rheology modifiers. Formulation benefits include excellent sag resistance and very good shear thinning for spray application of coating
CRAYVALLAC OPTIMA is a third-generation polyamide rheology modifier with wider activation window in high solids epoxies. It is primarily used in hot spray applications in marine, protective and general industrial applications where good sag during application or onto hot substrates is needed. It exhibits a wider activation window than second generation polyamide rheology modifiers, good hot spray application tolerance, excellent intercoat adhesion resistance and high sag resistance.
BASF: Solyfast 0010 is an organotin-free photolatent metal catalyst recommended for use in curing 2-component polyurethane systems and provides a wide variety of benefits due to its unique ability to cure “on demand” at low energy (ambient) temperatures. This performance benefit addresses the issues associated with having to heat very large objects, such as the wing of an airplane, or heat-sensitive parts such as plastic components, or even heavy metal exterior structures. Solyfast 0010 will also increase production productivity via faster throughput, and short handling or moving times of recently coated parts.
Tinuvin 249 is a non-basic hindered amine light stabilizer designed to meet the high performance requirements of solventborne automotive, industrial, or decorative coatings that demand superior formulation compatibility and outstanding thermal, color, and shelf stability.
Efka PX 4780 / 4787 is a new, high-performance reactive dispersant that provides superior dispersing efficiency as seen in development of color and viscosity suppression for organic pigments. In particular, it demonstrates differentiated dispersing performance with carbon black pigments. The value of this dispersant is further realized when used in a polyurethane coating where its dispersing power is complemented by its ability to react into the polymer matrix
Brenntag: 1) Natural essential oils will be the next generation of bactericides and preservatives. Wood is processed with preservatives to extend its life. Harnessing many of nature’s naturally occurring, and safe, conjugated aldehydes, are shown to exhibit extensive antimicrobial abilities, particularly regarding control of fungi growth and negating effects of gram-positive bacterium. The adjuvant complement of naturally-derived essential oils in anti-bacterial packages should provide safe, effective and positive long-term effects, further proving Mother Nature is the world’s greatest chemist. 2) A home represents one’s most important investment and tangible asset. Innovative approaches to ‘building envelopes’ are showing long-term, positive investment returns. Building components are engineered to resist the devastating effects of corrosion on metal, and resist moisture, mold, and wood ingesting insects on wood. Greater building protection from fire, heat and through innovations in intumescing resins and additives, and heat resistance resins, are forming a new level of performance standard consumers are demanding. Construction wood and metal that is pre-coated with antimicrobial, anti-termitic and corrosion resistant properties will increase in demand, as well.
BYK: Numerous unresolved issues and challenges with over-coatability in the coating industry were the driving force and motivation for developing the hydrophilic additive concept. BYK-3560 increases the surface energy of cured coatings overall, especially the polarity, thus achieving an improvement in the adhesion of subsequent layers in applications such as automotive multilayer coatings, lamination foils, adhesives, printing inks etc. The next development BYK-3565 incorporates additional beneficial effects to the hydrophilic properties. The challenge consisted not only in increasing the surface energy unilaterally, but also in visibly improving the coating’s anti-crater properties.
keim addict: SILCO OZ 100 is an open time extender for paints and coatings. The product provides additionally gloss enhancement as well as wetting properties without effecting the stain resistance or hardness of the film.
Lonza: Lonza has recently launched Proxel Spektra Preservative in North America. Proxel Spektra Preservative is a dual-active, broad spectrum biocide for the wet-state preservation of industrial water-based products. This preservative is a combination of 1, 2- benzisothiazolin- 3-one (BIT) and sodium pyrithione and benefits from the use of these two complementary active agents making it particularly effective in preserving industrial products against spoilage caused by bacteria, yeasts and mold (fungi). Proxel Spektra Preservative is free from formaldehyde, MIT and bronopol with minimal heavy metal content. It is a low-viscosity solution that is pH and temperature stable and can be easily incorporated into a wide range of industrial applications.
Densil ZOD Antimicrobial represents a new dry-film preservative option which is consistent with trends associated with a significant lowering of carbendazim (BCM) levels in preserved product formulations. This product was designed to provide robust long-term film protection through the pairing of the durable, long-term, slow-leaching, low-water solubility properties of zinc pyrithione with a secondary more water-soluble fungicide and a supplemental algaecide. This product offers complete BCM-free dry-film protection.
Micro Powders: Micro Powders recently introduced two new composite waxes; Polyfluo 900 and Polyfluo 523AL. Polyfluo 900 is a micronized melt composite of low density polyethylene, PTFE and ultrafine ceramic. Polyfluo 900 is designed to provide excellent abrasion resistance in industrial finishes as well as burnish resistance and soil release in architectural wall paints. Polyfluo 523AL is a micronized melt composite of high density polyethylene, PTFE and nano alumina. Polyfluo 523AL offers excellent scratch and abrasion resistance as well as COF reduction in industrial finishes. Both waxes can be used in aqueous and non-aqueous liquid paints as well as energy cure and powder coatings.
Shamrock Technologies: S-156 is a modified polyethylene wax developed for great compatibility, ease of dispersability and stability in formulation. This product provides abrasion resistance and scratch resistance. It may also be used to aid anti-blocking and sand-ability in sanding sealers. S-156 is designed for use in water-based, UV and solvent-based formulations for wood, furniture, and industrial coatings.
Hydrocer 135 is an aqueous amide wax dispersion formulated for water based coating systems requiring slip, release, ease of incorporation and anti-blocking. The amide wax also provide hydrophobicity to coatings applied on a variety of substrates including paper, plastics, wood and metal.
Troy: Troy has recently introduced Troysperse ZWD1 and ZWD3 – two new, high-performance, ‘green’ aqueous dispersants. Troysperse ZWD1 and ZWD3 were developed specifically for organic and carbon black pigment dispersing. Compared with conventional aqueous dispersants, Troysperse ZWD1 and ZWD3 offer fast, highly effective dispersing at up to 50% lower use levels. This translates into exceptionally low cost-in-use for the coating or dispersion manufacturer.
Unimin: Unimin / Sibelco has developed and commercialized ultrafine, ultra-clear mineral filler additives for UV/EB cure Aqueous and 100% solids wood, industrial, packaging and ink applications. They provide enhanced UV/EB cure efficiency, surface hardness, antiblock and economics at high loadings. Additionally, they help minimize the amount of photoiniator required for curing as they act as UV cure synergist with the photoinitiators.
Unimin / Sibelco has developed lower viscosity natural mineral filler additives for powder coatings based on ATH (alumina trihydrate), barite and nepheline to reduce water spotting, enhance gloss and gloss control.
