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ACGI Blog: Additives

Besides the three main categories of ingredients, paint can have a wide variety of miscellaneous additives, which are usually added in very small amounts and yet give a very significant effect on the product. Some examples include additives to modify surface tension, improve flow properties, improve the finished appearance, increase wet edge, improve pigment stability, impart antifreeze properties, control foaming, control skinning, etc.

Other types of additives include catalysts, thickeners, stabilizers, emulsifiers, texturizers, adhesion promoters, UV stabilizers, flatteners (de-glossing agents), biocides to fight bacterial growth, and the like. Additives normally do not significantly alter the percentages of individual components in a formulation.[3]

Common additives used by professional applicators include Floetrol (Water Based), Penetrol (Oil Based), and ultra-pure Water.

Floetrol is a water-based paint additive that improves the flow and leveling of latex or acrylic paints, reducing brush and roller marks for a smoother, professional finish. It extends the "wet edge," allowing more time to work, and makes paint flow like oil-based products without changing the color or finish. [PPG Paints]

Penetrol is a high-quality, oil-based paint additive and conditioner designed to improve the flow, penetration, and adhesion of oil- or alkyd-based coatings. Unlike traditional thinners, it does not evaporate but becomes a permanent part of the paint, increasing coverage and enhancing the final finish. [PPG Paints]

Written by ACGI Homes