Water-Based Paint & Coating Application

Recommended Additives:

HEC – Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
Good Performance with HEC for Water-Based Paints

Overview

Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) is a commonly used water-based thickening agent in coatings. Its core function is to regulate the viscosity of the coating system and enhance the stability during storage and application through the physical and chemical properties of its own polymer structure. It is one of the key additives that ensure the performance of coatings. The densities of pigments (such as titanium dioxide) and fillers (such as calcium carbonate) in coatings are usually higher than the base material. Without sufficient stabilizing measures, they are prone to sedimentation and stratification during storage. After HEC thickens, it increases the viscosity of the coating system, which can slow down the sedimentation speed of particles; at the same time, its molecular chains can adsorb on the surface of pigment particles, forming spatial steric hindrance, preventing particles from aggregating to form large particles, and further preventing sedimentation, ensuring the uniformity of components in the upper and lower layers of the coating.

Why Use HEMC in Water-Based Paint & Coating?

•Regulation of the characteristics of viscoplastic fluids During the construction process, external forces can temporarily disrupt the molecular chain entanglement structure of HEC, reducing the viscosity of the coating and making it easier to flow and flatten. When the external forces disappear (such as after standing or after application), the molecular chains will re-entangle to restore the network structure, and the viscosity will increase. This effectively prevents the coating from running off when applied on vertical surfaces.
•Prevent the sedimentation of pigments and fillers
The pigments (such as titanium dioxide) and fillers (such as calcium carbonate) in the coating usually have a higher density than the base material. Without sufficient stabilizing measures, they are prone to settle and separate during storage. After HEC thickens, it increases the viscosity of the coating system, which can slow down the settling speed of the particles; at the same time, its molecular chains can adsorb on the surface of the pigment particles, forming spatial steric hindrance, preventing the particles from aggregating to form large particles, and further preventing settling, ensuring the uniformity of the components in the upper and lower layers of the coating.

Typical Applications

•Emulsion paints
•Water-based sand coating
•True stone paint coating

Xinwo Haowei’s advantages in the application of coating technology

HEC is produced by treating cellulose with sodium hydroxide for alkalization, and then reacting with ethylene oxide through an etherification process. The production process is complex and dangerous. However, Xinwo Hao Chemicals did not shy away from difficulties and, after years of research and development, has now made the preparation process of HEC very mature and complete. It has become a well-known brand in the industry and provides stable quality cellulose ethers for global customers.

Advantages of Cellulose Ether For Water Based Paint

•High-Purity,Low-Ash Cellulose Ether: Ensures excellent batch-to-batch consistency.
•Enhance the system’s ability to resist stratification and water separation
•Pay attention to the synergy with other additives
•HEC exerts multiple effects to suppress the instability of the coating system, ensuring consistent performance during storage, transportation and construction processes.