Why It Matters
Surface-tension gradients and poor substrate wetting cause craters/fisheyes (contamination de-wetting) and orange peel (incomplete leveling); additives must promote wetting and flow
Solution Approach
Surface-tension gradients and poor substrate wetting cause craters/fisheyes (contamination de-wetting) and orange peel (incomplete leveling); additives must promote wetting and flow RawSource supplies the base chemicals that go into these programs. We can help with product selection, grade matching, and sourcing from multiple origins for supply security.
Typical Formulation Workflow
1
System & Substrate Assessment
Define the binder system (waterborne, solventborne, UV, powder), substrate, cure, and the VOC, durability, and appearance targets.
2
Additive & Resin Selection
Match resins, pigments and fillers, dispersants, rheology modifiers, defoamers, or biocides to the formulation and compatibility window.
3
Lab Let-Down & Optimization
Dial in loading and addition order through lab let-downs, checking dispersion, rheology, film properties, and storage stability.
4
Application & Performance Testing
Validate on the real application method and substrate, tracking gloss, adhesion, sag, cure, and weathering before scale-up.
Recommended Chemistries (2)
Sodium Xylene Sulfonate 40%
CAS 1300-72-7
Surfactants
Cleaning / Degreasing
Hydrotrope/wetting aid that lowers surface tension to improve substrate wetting at low-energy or contaminated spots, reducing the de-wetting that seeds craters and fisheyes
Melting Point: 27 °C Boiling Point: 157 °C at 760 mmHg Density: 1.23
Full Details
Silicone Resin (methyl silicone resin)
CAS 67762-90-7
Silicone Fluids & Oils
MQ resin for film hardness and gloss
Methyl (MQ-type) silicone resin migrates to the air interface and modifies surface tension and slip, promoting flow-out and gloss to reduce orange peel
Full Details