Chemi Tech Defoamer for Waterborne Coatings: Precisely Solving Foam Issues, Enhancing Coating Smoothness and Performance

Foam formation during the production and application of waterborne coatings remains a core challenge for many companies. Excessive foam not only reduces production and filling efficiency but also leads to unacceptable surface defects such as pinholes, craters, or fisheyes in the final film, severely impacting the product's appearance and protective properties.

A common market pain point is that many defoamers either lack sufficient initial foam suppression to cope with vigorous foaming during high-speed dispersion or have poor compatibility, causing secondary issues like cratering and uneven gloss during storage or film formation. The key to enhancing product competitiveness lies in achieving persistent and efficient defoaming and foam suppression without compromising the stability of the coating system.

To address these needs, the Chemi Tech R&D team provides a systematic solution. Our defoamers for waterborne coatings are specially designed at the molecular level, combining rapid bubble-breaking capability with long-lasting foam inhibition. The solution involves three specific steps: First, precise selection, where we recommend the most suitable defoamer type based on the customer's coating system, including resin type, pH, and application method (e.g., roller, spray). Second, determining the optimal addition point and dosage. We advise adding the majority of the defoamer during the grinding and dispersion stage to suppress initial foam, with a supplementary amount during the let-down stage to optimize long-term performance. Third, conducting comprehensive compatibility and performance evaluations to ensure the defoamer eliminates foam effectively without negatively affecting critical properties like intercoat adhesion and water resistance.

We collaborated with a manufacturer specializing in industrial anti-corrosion coatings. After testing several defoamers, the client still faced issues with tiny air entrapment in the film after spraying. Chemi Tech's technical engineers analyzed their formula and recommended a silicone-modified defoamer with excellent compatibility, while also optimizing the addition process. After adjustments, the customer's coating showed approximately a 70% reduction in foam volume during high-speed dispersion. The sprayed film achieved a smooth, even surface with no air entrapment, and both gloss and anti-corrosion performance met the expected standards, receiving positive feedback from end-users.

Choosing Chemi Tech means opting for a reliable problem-solving pathway. Our products and technical support are designed to help you control foam at its source, enabling your waterborne coatings to exhibit superior surface quality and consistent performance.