The above quote is but one of many we have received
over the past years and sums up the benefits of this handbook rather well. We
all know that additives impart critical properties to a coatings formulation,
but we seldom focus on those properties and tend to forget the major role that
additives play. Our attention is usually centered on the major compositional
materials in a coating – the polymers, pigments and the solvent if formulating
a liquid coating. We use additives to fine-tune formulas, to provide better
application properties, and quite often to correct for a problem that has
arisen because of a prior improper use of another additive.
Considering that additives are used in rather
miniscule quantities, it is sometimes a big surprise to find that they can
cause major coating problems if not used properly. When they are used properly
they provide tremendous beneficial properties, which is also amazing, as
additives are typically used in very small quantities. Some additives are so
multifunctional that it is difficult to grasp their true nature.