Types of water-based paint thickeners: Take Hydroxyethylmethylcellulose (HEC), Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) as examples

Water-based paint is an environmentally friendly, easy-to-clean paint that is widely used in home decoration and construction projects. However, we sometimes find the fluidity of water-based paint too large and difficult to control. At this time, we need to use a water-based paint thickener. This article will introduce the types and functions of water-based paint thickeners to help everyone better understand and use them.

Water-based paint

Water-based paint thickener is an additive used to adjust the rheological properties of paint and increase its viscosity. Depending on their composition and uses, water-based paint thickeners can be divided into the following common types:

1. Polymer thickener: This thickener is usually made of polymer materials, such as hydroxyethyl methylcellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), etc. They interact with water molecules in water-based paints to form a network structure that increases the viscosity of the paint.
2. Fatty acid thickener: This type of thickener is usually made of fatty acids and their salts, such as montmorillonite, lithium stearate, etc. They can combine with water molecules in the paint to form a colloidal structure, thereby increasing the viscosity of the paint.
3. Silicone thickener: This thickener is usually made of silicone materials, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). They can form a three-dimensional network structure in the paint, thereby increasing the viscosity of the paint.

The main function of a water-based paint thickener is to increase the viscosity of the paint, making it easier to construct and control. Specifically, the functions of water-based paint thickeners include the following aspects:

1. Improve the fluidity of paint: By increasing the viscosity of the paint, water-based paint thickeners can improve its fluidity and prevent paint from dripping and splashing during construction, thereby improving the construction performance of the paint.
2. Improve the covering ability of the paint: Water-based paint thickeners can increase the adhesion of the paint, making it better adhere to the substrate’s surface and improving the paint’s covering ability and uniformity.
3. Increase the scratch resistance of the coating film: Water-based paint thickeners can make the coating form a harder and more durable coating film, improve the scratch resistance and longevity of the covering movie, and extend the service life of the finish.
4. Adjust the rheological properties of the paint: Water-based paint thickeners can adjust the rheological properties of the paint, making it more suitable for different construction methods and coating processes and improving construction efficiency and quality.

Supplier

TRUNNANO is a supplier of surfactant with over 12 years experience in HPMC, It accepts payment via Credit Card, T/T, West Union and Paypal. Trunnano will ship the goods to customers overseas through FedEx, DHL, by air, or by sea. If you are looking for high-quality HPMC, please feel free to contact us and send an inquiry.