Key Applications of Wetting Agents

Wetting agents find applications across various types of coatings. This is due to their ability to modify surface properties and improve coating performance. Here are some specific applications of wetting agents in different types of coatings:

Industrial coatings

Wetting agents in industrial coatings are used in metal coatings, coil coatings, and powder coatings. Their properties include:

improvement in substrate wetting and adhesion,
reduction in surface defects, and
enhancement of flow and leveling characteristics of the coating

In powder coatings, wetting agents aid in the dispersion of pigments and additives within the powder formulation.

Wood coatings

Wetting agents promote better penetration of the coating into the wood substrate. This leads to the improvement in:

adhesion and
durability

Wetting agents also aid in reducing surface tension. This enhances flow and leveling and prevents surface defects like fisheyes.

Architectural coatings

Wetting agents are used in water-based architectural coatings. For example, in interior and exterior paints. They help to achieve the following:

improved wetting of substrates,
better adhesion, leveling, and coverage

They also aid in pigment dispersion, preventing settling and ensuring uniform color distribution.

Pigment concentrates

Wetting agents in pigment concentrates help in pigment wetting and dispersion. This ensures uniform color development and prevents agglomeration. They aid in:

ease of incorporation,
adjusting surface tension, and
controlling rheological properties for optimal handling and application

Wetting agents also enhance compatibility between pigments and liquid mediums. This improves stability and prevents phase separation.

Automotive coatings

In automotive coatings, wetting agents assist in promoting adhesion to various substrates. For example, metal, plastic, and composite materials. They also contribute to the flow and leveling properties of the coating. This results in a smooth finish. Wetting agents are crucial in automotive clear coats to minimize surface defects such as orange peel.

Marine coatings

Marine coatings are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Wetting agents in marine coatings assist in:

reducing surface tension,
preventing water intrusion, and
improving the overall performance and longevity of the coating

They also help to improve the adhesion of the coating to substrates. For example, metal, fiberglass, and concrete.

Coil coatings

Wetting agents in coil coatings ensure uniform coverage on metal surfaces while reducing surface tension. This leads to optimal adhesion. They assist in pigment dispersion for consistent color development. They also influence drying and curing. This enhances production efficiency and coating performance.

Varnishes

Wetting agents in varnishes enhance flow and leveling. This minimizes surface defects like brush marks and ensures a smooth finish. They also promote pigment dispersion in tinted varnishes. This ensures consistent coloration and UV protection.

Flexographic inks

Wetting agents in flexographic inks improve substrate wetting on a variety of surfaces. For example, paper, cardboard, and plastics, facilitating uniform printing. They help control ink viscosity and rheology. This ensures proper ink transfer and prevents issues like dot gain or dot distortion. They also enhance ink receptivity, allowing for sharper printing and vibrant colors.