What are the functions of plasticizers in coatings?
1. Improve the flexibility and weather resistance of the coating
Plasticizers change the molecular structure of the coating film and increase its flexibility, allowing the coating to withstand greater deformation without cracking. This is particularly important for exterior wall coatings and surface coatings that require frequent movement or deformation. At the same time, plasticizers can absorb some ultraviolet rays, reduce the direct damage of light to the paint film, and extend the service life of the paint. Appropriate plasticizers can also improve the chemical and water resistance of the coating by forming chemical bonds with the resin, allowing it to be used in harsher environments.
2. Improve the film-forming properties of coatings
Plasticizers can reduce the film-forming temperature required for the formation of paint films, especially in low-temperature environments. The addition of plasticizers can ensure the normal film-forming of paints. In addition, by selecting plasticizers with appropriate compatibility, internal stress in the paint film can be reduced and film cracking and blistering can be avoided. Plasticizers can also improve the leveling and wettability of coatings, resulting in a flatter and smoother coating surface.
3. Adjust the leveling of paint
Leveling property is an important indicator of whether the coating film can form a flat surface after application. Plasticizers can reduce the surface tension of the paint, promote even distribution of the paint on the substrate, prevent brush marks and roll marks, and obtain a smooth and smooth coating film. Especially when using spray or roller coating, good leveling properties can significantly improve the appearance quality of the coating film.
4. Improve the construction performance of coatings
Plasticizers can effectively reduce the viscosity of the paint, improve its fluidity, and make the paint easier to apply. At the same time, it can reduce the rolling marks and brush marks of the paint and improve the construction efficiency. In addition, plasticizers can also improve the wettability of the coating, making it easier for the coating to be evenly coated on various substrates of different properties, and increasing the adhesion and coverage of the coating.
5. Improved low-temperature performance
At low temperatures, coatings may become brittle and prone to cracking. Plasticizers can lower the glass transition temperature of a coating, which is the temperature at which the coating changes from a brittle to a ductile state. This means that at lower temperatures, the coating can still maintain a certain degree of flexibility and toughness, reducing damage caused by temperature changes.
6. Increase gloss and transparency
Plasticizers can help optimize the surface properties of paint films, providing better gloss and transparency. For clear coatings or applications requiring a high-gloss effect, selecting the appropriate plasticizer is especially critical.
In short, what are the functions of plasticizers in coatings? Plasticizers affect the basic properties of coatings, such as flexibility and weather resistance, and are also closely related to the construction performance and film quality of coatings. In today's continuous pursuit of environmental protection and high quality, selecting appropriate plasticizers, optimizing coating formulas, and meeting specific application requirements are the keys to the continuous advancement of the coatings industry. With the advancement of science and technology and the continuous development of the market, the types and properties of plasticizers will become more abundant and diverse in the future to meet more extensive and complex application requirements.
