High performance attapulgite thixotropic thickener for aqueous and solvent systems

 
A high-performance thixotropic thickener product (Min-U-Gel® 500+) was developed based on natural attapulgite for both aqueous and solvent systems. A proprietary process was used to make attapulgite three-dimensional chain colloidal gelling structure more efficient to enhance thixotropic thickener performance. In-situ real-time viscosity measurement during dispersion indicates that this new attapulgite thixotropic thickener can be easily dispersed in both aqueous and solvent systems. Compared to leading commercial attapulgite products, this new product shows higher viscosity in water and comparable viscosity in solvents. This new product also exhibits superior suspension and syneresis control characteristics in both aqueous and solvent systems. The specially developed proprietary process contributes to the high thixotropic performance. Test results in solvent and water-based paints show good stability, sag resistance and syneresis. This new versatile thixotropic thickener product can be used for various applications in paints, coatings, adhesives, and agriculture. For example, this product can be used in both aqueous and solvent paint and coating systems to stabilize the media, prevent settling, control flow and reduce syneresis.