Chemi Tech Specialized Leveling Agents for Waterborne Polyurethane: Enhancing Coating Performance

Waterborne polyurethane coatings are widely used in automotive, furniture, and industrial equipment due to their durability and flexibility. However, the leveling performance directly affects surface aesthetics and protective properties. Chemi Tech has developed specialized leveling agents for waterborne polyurethane systems, utilizing non-ionic associative technology to achieve dual thickening and leveling functions, enhancing both application efficiency and film quality.

Core Functions

Rheology Control: By modifying hydrophobic groups, the leveling agent forms a dynamic associative network, balancing high- and low-shear viscosity to reduce roller spatter and brush marks during application.

Film Uniformity: The optimized molecular structure lowers surface tension, promoting self-leveling to eliminate defects like orange peel and cratering, ensuring consistent film thickness and gloss.

Process Compatibility: Compatible with waterborne polyurethane resins and common solvents (e.g., alcohols, esters), it requires no neutralization or dilution, simplifying production workflows.

Technical Advantages

Associative Thickening: Non-ionic polymers associate with emulsion particles via hydrophobic interactions, providing shear-thinning behavior suitable for spraying, rolling, and other techniques.

Low-Viscosity Formulation: With viscosity ≤3000mPa·s (25°C), it ensures easy mixing without increasing energy consumption or production time.

pH Stability: Performs consistently across pH 5-10, adapting to complex formulations in industrial coatings.

Application Guidelines

Dosage & Timing: Recommended dosage is 0.2%-1.0% of the formula, added during grinding or blending stages with high-speed dispersion for homogeneity.

Compatibility Notes: Avoid combining with polyacid dispersants to prevent molecular destabilization; pair with high-shear thickeners for balanced viscosity.

Performance Testing: Evaluate dispersion efficiency via fineness gauges and sag resistance tests to optimize film appearance.