Polyurethane Associative Thickeners (H-1100A/B/D/E)
Polyurethane associative thickeners (PU thickeners) are high molecular weight polymers that interact with water or resins to form a three-dimensional network structure, thereby increasing the viscosity and stability of waterborne coatings. Their primary function is to increase the viscosity of liquids, giving the solution a thicker consistency, which in turn enhances the coating's application ability, adhesion, and flow properties. They also improve the gloss and anti-corrosion performance of the coating.
Due to Polyurethane thickeners' liquid delivery form, ease of handling, and wide range of applications, they are widely used in the market and can be applied to various water-based systems. Because of their associative behavior and interaction with hydrophobic components in the formulation, a variety of different products are needed in the market to achieve optimal results in terms of the desired rheological properties.
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Thickening Mechanism of Associative Thickeners
Associative thickeners are hydrophobic associative water-soluble polymers, generally referring to water-soluble polymers that carry a small number of hydrophobic groups on their hydrophilic macromolecular chains. In polymer aqueous solutions, hydrophobic groups aggregate due to hydrophobic interactions, leading to intra- and intermolecular associations that affect the rheology of the aqueous solution. Above the critical association concentration, a supramolecular structure dominated by intermolecular associations is formed, increasing the hydrodynamic volume and providing good thickening properties. This makes associative thickeners a new generation of thickeners.
The thickening action of associative thickeners is related to the arrangement of molecules in the solvent, and when the arrangement of molecules changes, the associative action changes accordingly, thereby altering the viscosity of the liquid. The thickening of associative thickeners is also related to their concentration in the solution. As the concentration of the thickener increases, the intermolecular associative action strengthens, gradually increasing the viscosity of the liquid. However, when the thickener concentration is too high, it can affect the fluidity of the liquid and the application performance of the coating, so it is important to control the concentration of the thickener during application.
Application Areas
Associative thickeners are widely used in paints, coatings, adhesives, cosmetics, and other fields. In the paint and coating industry, they improve the brushability, anti-sagging properties, and prevent sedimentation. In adhesives, they increase viscosity and strength, improving stability and control. In cosmetics, they are commonly used to increase the viscosity and texture of lotions, creams, shampoos, and other products, enhancing stability and penetration. In the cleaning industry, associative thickeners can increase the viscosity of weakly alkaline and alkaline products, improving product stability and performance. Additionally, they are also applied in lubricants, tire adhesives, and rubber products.
SIOResin ® Associative Thickeners Features
- Strong associative properties, high viscosity at low shear rates, and strong pseudoplasticity.
- Excellent thickening effect with good flowability and leveling properties.
- Free from toxic substances such as organotin and APEO.
- Good dispersibility, aiding in the wetting and dispersion of pigments in formulations.
- Nonionic, unaffected by the pH of the system.
- No adverse effect on the gloss of the formulated product.
- Suitable for all high and low shear applications.
Typical Physical Data
Competitive alternative products
Precautions
1. Associative thickening is affected by temperature, with higher viscosity at lower temperatures and lower viscosity at higher temperatures. Temperature conditions should be considered when designing formulations.
2.W hen the batch of thickened raw materials changes, further testing should be conducted to determine the appropriate amount of thickener.
3. This product may crystallize at low temperatures; crystallization does not affect the product's performance. If crystallization occurs, heat the product to melt the crystals before use.
Storage Conditions
This product can be stored for one year in its original sealed packaging at temperatures between 5℃ and 35℃.
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