Application of leveling agent in water-based coatings
Leveling agent is a commonly used coating additive, also known as surfactant, which can promote the
coating to form a flat, smooth and uniform coating film during the drying and film-forming process.
In water-based coatings, the application of leveling agent has significant effects and importance. The
following is a specific analysis of its application:
1. The main role of leveling agent
Reducing surface tension: Leveling agent can effectively reduce the surface tension of the coating liquid
and improve the leveling and uniformity of the coating. By adjusting the surface tension of the coating,
the surface tension gradient can be eliminated, so that the coating can be better spread and flow on the
substrate, thus forming a flat and smooth coating film.
Improving permeability: Leveling agent can improve the permeability of the coating, so that the coating
can better penetrate into the tiny pores of the substrate, enhance the bonding force between the coating
and the substrate, and improve the adhesion and durability of the coating film.
Reducing defects: During the coating construction process, leveling agent can reduce the possibility of spots
and marks when brushing, increase the coverage of the coating, and make the film formation more uniform
and natural. This helps to improve the overall quality and aesthetics of the coating.
Improve gloss and smoothness: Leveling agents can make the paint form a glossy and smooth surface after
drying and film formation. This can not only enhance the decorative effect of the paint, but also enhance the
wear resistance and weather resistance of the coating.
Adjust the drying speed: Some leveling agents (such as solvent-based leveling agents) can affect the drying
speed of the paint by adjusting the viscosity and leveling time of the paint film. This helps to better control the
drying and curing process of the coating during the coating construction process, so as to obtain the ideal coating
effect.
2. Types and selection of leveling agents
There are many types of leveling agents, and the types of leveling agents used in different coatings are also
different. In water-based coatings, commonly used leveling agents include surfactants such as polyacrylic acid
and carboxymethyl cellulose, as well as leveling agents such as silicones, acrylics and fluorocarbons. These different
types of leveling agents have their own characteristics and advantages in coating applications, and can be selected
and used according to specific needs.
3. Application examples of leveling agents
Take a certain brand of leveling agent as an example. It is a surface additive based on polyacrylate, suitable for
solvent-based coating systems and room temperature curing plastic systems, and can be used for medium polar to
polar systems. The leveling agent has good anti-shrinkage and smoothness, can be recoated, can give the paint film
excellent surface smoothness and scratch resistance, and can improve the arrangement effect of the matting powder
to prevent vortices in the paint coating. In addition, it also has excellent flow promotion, compatibility and recoatability,
and can produce long-wave effects in spray construction.
4. Precautions
When using the leveling agent, the appropriate type and amount of leveling agent should be selected according to the
type of paint and specific needs.
The addition of the leveling agent should be carried out in the later stages of paint production to ensure that it can fully
play its role.
Attention should be paid to the compatibility of the leveling agent with other components in the paint to avoid adverse
reactions or affect the performance of the paint.
In summary
The application of leveling agents in water-based paints has significant effects and importance. By reasonably
selecting and using leveling agents, the construction performance and film quality of the paint can be improved, and the
decorative effect and durability of the paint can be improved.
