AMSTHIX is a new, vegetable and polyethylene wax-based rheological additive for solvent-based systems (and some water-based systems also) used with industrial coatings. This anti-settling agent is designed to improve suspension stability, control viscosity, and prevent fillers and pigments from settling at the bottom of a container.
Each AMSTHIX formula is solvent specific for the coatings system. AMSTHIX is particularly useful in high pigment loaded systems where milling and homogeneous composition is vital. At the recommended concentration, AMSTHIX products do not affect other coating properties such as leveling, gloss, corrosion resistance, adhesion and film flexibility. Under proper use AMSTHIX offers a stable suspension while maintaining a thixotropic environment.
AMSTHIX Additives
Paints and coatings utilize different fillers and pigments that tend to settle at the bottom of a container over time, causing sedimentation and potentially forming a solid mass that is challenging and hard to re-incorporate. AMSTHIX prevents this hard bottom settling. AMSTHIX also provides SAG resistance while not affecting the at rest viscosity of the resulting matrix.
AMSTHIX requires both heat and shear energy for activation and AMSTHIX should be added early in the grind stage for maximum efficacy. Ideally AMSTHIX should reach 140 F under high shear and there is no maximum upper temperature limit as with other wax based rheology products. After activation, the AMSTHIX product opens up into a branched network of chain entanglement. The final result is a thixotropic mixture that is easily pumpable.
The microstructure matrix that AMSTHIX creates holds pigments, binders and minerals together in the carrier solvent to provide a homogeneous mixture that lasts over time. Applying the slightest force to the matrix results in a flowable liquid that can be applied to the desired substrate. This allows for the manufacturing of a formulation that is a consistent product with repeatable physical parameters over time.
Benefits of Anti-Settling Additives
Adding anti-settling agents, such as AMSTHIX, to formulations has many benefits, including improved mixing efficiency, compatibility with many different chemical ingredients, and long-term stability without product degradation. Direct benefits to products include:
Ease of incorporation.
Controls sag in pigmented finishes.
Improves brushability of product.
Low dosages give great results.
Compatible with very high pigment loading.
Enhanced particle dispersion and long term stability.
Reliable, reproducible thixotropic and viscosity development.
Maximized final rheological profile.
Prevention of hard settling of fillers and pigments.
Temporary breakdown during shear improves brushability, sprayability, pumping, and mixing.
Regains higher viscosity when shear stops (i.e., at rest).
Compatibility with waterborne, solvent-borne, and hybrid paints.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I select the right AMSTHIX grade?
Check the AMSTHIX product data sheet to identify the grade with the base solvent that is most compatible with your formulation.
How do I add AMSTHIX to my formula?
AMSTHIX must be added during the grind and dispersion stage of pigment incorporation. Recommended starting usage levels typically range from 0.7 to 2.0%. Ensure the AMSTHIX is fully dispersed and creates a uniform consistency.
How does activation occur?
AMSTIX requires time, heat and shear for activation to form a branched network. Best results are achieved with temperatures 140 F. for 30-60 minutes under conditions of high-shear, milling or grinding.
AMSTHIX Additives for Rheology Control
As a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals and process aids, Applied Material Solutions has over 45 years of experience providing customers with innovative solutions that meet their specific needs. Our latest innovation, AMSTHIX, is an exciting new polyethylene additive used for pigment suspension and anti-sag properties.
Offering vertically integrated production and exceptional customer service, the expert team at AMS has a proven reputation for top-quality products that address various challenges of industrial formulations in many industries, including die casting, food processing, fuel ethanol, paints/coatings, pulp/paper, and water treatment.
We offer a full line of high-quality, reliable rheological additives and anti-settling agent products that can improve the performance of pigmented solvent paint systems and related applications. Contact us today to discover the many benefits of adding AMSTHIX to your formulation.
