Film Formation & VOC

Latex Film Formation is Critical! (Coalescence) As water evaporates, tiny latex particles come into contact. If the particles are sufficiently soft, the film of water between the particles that pulls them together causes them to fuse into a continuous, useful film.

Latex Hardness/Softness Performance Conflict Latex particles must be soft to fuse (coalesce) into a continuous film. Soft Latex = Poor Blocking & Dirt Pick-up Hard Latex + Coalescing solvents temporarily soften and assist in film formation.

Coalescent Solvents vs. Plasticizers Coalescent Solvents - help hard latex film form and will evaporate from film. Dry film retains ‘toughness’ Plasticizers - will soften a hard latex and help film formation, but does not evaporate. Dry film can be ‘softened’

“VOCs” Volatile Organic Compounds These are hydrocarbons emitted by many products, which contribute to ozone formation. 5

Sources & Functions of VOC Coalescing Solvents Temporarily softens latex particles to aid film formation; especially important at low temp. Glycol “Likes” water; slows dry time; lengthens open time, improves lapping. Additives “Carriers” for defoamers, biocides, etc. Float Inhibits latex paint skinning.

Impact of VOC’s on Paint Performance Adding VOC’s Can Improve: Removing VOC’s Can Improve: Open time Dry speed, recoat time Low temp cure Early rain resistance Gloss Shelf life Blocking resistance Scrub resistance Dirt pick-up resistance Cost

Paint Processing 101 can help…. Given the opportunity we can help with your existing paint products or new paint formulations whether they contain VOC’s , lower VOC’s or No VOC’s. We can also help you set up a Pilot Plant / Lab Bench Top model to assist you in improving your process therefore reducing product variability, cycle time, etc…. Contact us at PaintProcessing101.com or Call us at 440-773-1046