To improve flow, we recommend using the viscosity-reducing wetting and dispersing agents Tech-598 or Tech-5108 in anti-corrosion coatings. Typical recommended dosage: TiO₂ 2% SOP (additive solids based on pigment), inorganic pigments 5% SOP, and fillers 0.5% SOP. To prevent settling, we recommend Tech-9030 or Tech-9020, with an initial addition of 0.5% based on Component A. These rheological additives exhibit excellent shear-thinning properties.

Organic pigments such as phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, and carbon black are among the most difficult to wet, disperse, and stabilize; a key factor is using the correct wetting and dispersing agent to aid in stabilization. If a co-grinding process is used, a single additive should be capable of stabilizing all pigments and fillers; we recommend using Tech-5541 Super Dispersant. If color floating does not meet expectations, an additional 0.5% of Tech-504S anti-floating additive may be added. For phthalocyanine blue and green, a pigment synergist is also required; we recommend Tech-5550, a synergist at 3–5% based on the pigment weight. The synergist should be added before the grinding stage to be effective.

This problem is primarily caused by flocculation of titanium dioxide. Even though the titanium dioxide appears to be fairly well dispersed in the ground slurry, selecting the correct additives and dosages is crucial to prevent this phenomenon. During the grinding of the pigment, you can try adding Tech-598 to the epoxy component at a dosage of 2% additive solids by weight relative to the titanium dioxide.

Polyether-modified silicones should be used with caution at very high curing temperatures; we recommend using polyester-modified silicones such as Tech-210A instead. Tech-210A is a highly reactive silicone that provides strong surface tension-reducing properties. Even at low concentrations, it delivers excellent leveling and substrate wetting performance. The typically recommended addition rate is 0.2%; we recommend conducting a gradient test. The additive should be added during the later stages of production and requires only low shear to mix uniformly. The migration behavior of the additive must be tested and evaluated.

To resolve substrate wetting issues, the surface tension of the coating must be reduced. There are two viable approaches: a) Silicone: Try Tech-233A or Tech-2733, which can significantly reduce surface tension; the recommended addition rate is 0.1–0.2% (based on the purchased form relative to the total formulation). Other silicone products may also be used. b) Non-silicone: Tech-1399 is a polymer-based leveling agent that can slightly reduce surface tension; this is generally sufficient to resolve substrate wetting issues. Add 0.3–0.5% (based on the purchased form relative to the total formulation).