In the paint and varnish industry, cellulose esters Lithocell HEC, MHPC, MHEC, CMC, HmHEC are used as a universal additive that improves a wide range of properties, and the characteristics contribute to increased durability and ease of coating on the surface. The following are the main functional characteristics:
Thickening:
Lithocell is an effective thickener that helps control the viscosity and rheological properties of paint systems. By adjusting the fluidity of the paint, it improves application properties such as the ability to apply with a brush, reducing spreading and spraying during application. Controlled rheological properties also prevent the paint from sagging or draining during application, especially on vertical surfaces.
Water retention:
Lithocell cellulose thickeners improve water retention in paint formulations. This is especially important for water-based paints, where maintaining the proper moisture level is crucial for proper application and drying. Improved water retention also contributes to better pigment dispersion and color stability.
Stabilization of pigments and fillers:
Cellulose ether acts as a stabilizer of pigments and fillers in the system, helps to prevent the settling of these components, ensuring uniform distribution throughout the paint, promotes color consistency and prevents the formation of agglomerations or streaks.
Reducing spatter:
In water-based paints, it reduces splashing during application. Splashing occurs when drops of paint run off the applicator, resulting in uneven coating. The addition of cellulose ether helps control splashing, resulting in a smoother and more controlled application.
Improved adhesion:
Lithocell cellulose esters improve the adhesion of the paint, which is especially important for coatings applied to complex substrates or surfaces with different porosity, and improved adhesion, in turn, contributes to the durability of the coating.
Cracking resistance:
The use of cellulose ether in paint formulations can increase flexibility and crack resistance on dried paint, which is extremely important for outdoor paints, where exposure to changing weather conditions can lead to expansion and shrinkage of surfaces, especially in such harsh climatic conditions as in Russia.
Increased open time:
Refers to the period during which the paint remains usable after application. Lithocell cellulose thickeners can extend the open time, providing a more comfortable application, especially in large and complex projects.
Film formation:
Cellulose esters contribute to the formation of a homogeneous and continuous film during the drying process, this film provides a protective barrier against environmental factors such as moisture and ultraviolet radiation, contributing to the durability of the coating.
Minimum content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs):
They contribute to the stabilization of pigments and improve the overall formulation, cellulose ether can help reduce the content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in paint compositions. This is important for compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements in the modern environmental agenda.
Compatibility with other additives:
Lithocell is compatible with a range of other paint additives such as thickeners, dispersants, defoamers and others. Its versatility makes it possible to create paint compositions with special performance characteristics adapted to the requirements of various applications.
Thus, Lithocell HEC, MHPC, MHEC, CMC, HmHEC cellulose esters play a crucial role in improving the performance of paints and coatings, providing improved thickening, rheological properties control, water retention, pigment stabilization, adhesion, cracking resistance and much more. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition for developers seeking to optimize the properties of their paint formulations.