Technological Frontier: Safe and Efficient Use of Water-Based Aluminum Paste: Key Consider
2025 / 09 / 24
With increasingly stringent environmental regulations and growing market demand, water-based aluminum paste, due to its low VOC, safe, and environmentally friendly properties, is increasingly being used in industrial coatings, printing inks, and plastic coloring. However, many users switching from solvent-based systems often experience poor results due to improper handling. Proper application precautions are crucial for unleashing its superior metallic luster and performance.
Avoid vigorous mixing with water: This is crucial. Although water-based aluminum paste has a specially treated surface, it is crucial to avoid injecting large amounts of water directly into the paste at high speeds. This can damage the coating on the aluminum particles, causing them to react rapidly with water, generating hydrogen gas and posing the risk of drum bulging or even explosion. The correct approach is to slowly add the aluminum paste to the water or aqueous base while stirring at a low speed.
Controlling the pH of the system: Water-based aluminum paste is generally suitable for use in a neutral to slightly alkaline environment (pH 7-9). Strongly acidic (pH < 4) or alkaline (pH > 10) systems can corrode the aluminum powder surface, causing gloss loss, graying, and gas generation. The pH of the resin system must be confirmed before use and adjusted with amines or buffers if necessary.
Avoid mixing with strong electrolytes: Certain inorganic pigments (such as iron-based pigments), additives (certain ionic dispersants, preservatives), or salts contain strong electrolytes, which can destabilize the aluminum powder slurry, leading to flocculation, sedimentation, and a decrease in metallic appearance. Compatibility testing is recommended during formulation and before adding materials.
Selecting Appropriate Mixing Equipment: A low-speed mixer or anchor impeller is recommended. High-shear equipment (such as high-speed dispersers and sand mills) is strictly prohibited. The severe mechanical forces can abrade the aluminum flakes, causing them to deform and break, resulting in reduced gloss, darkening of color, and decreased hiding power.
Storage and Safety: Store sealed in a cool, dry place, away from high temperatures and freezing. After opening, it's recommended to use the slurry as soon as possible. Any remaining material should be sealed to prevent evaporation and the ingress of impurities. While water-based products are safer, the workplace still requires ventilation and personal protective equipment.
Conclusion:
Successful application of water-based aluminum slurry is not difficult. The key lies in understanding its characteristics and adhering to the principles of "slow speed, slow addition, pH control, and avoiding strong electrical currents." Only through meticulous application can the final coating achieve a brilliant, long-lasting metallic effect while ensuring production safety.
Avoid vigorous mixing with water: This is crucial. Although water-based aluminum paste has a specially treated surface, it is crucial to avoid injecting large amounts of water directly into the paste at high speeds. This can damage the coating on the aluminum particles, causing them to react rapidly with water, generating hydrogen gas and posing the risk of drum bulging or even explosion. The correct approach is to slowly add the aluminum paste to the water or aqueous base while stirring at a low speed.
Controlling the pH of the system: Water-based aluminum paste is generally suitable for use in a neutral to slightly alkaline environment (pH 7-9). Strongly acidic (pH < 4) or alkaline (pH > 10) systems can corrode the aluminum powder surface, causing gloss loss, graying, and gas generation. The pH of the resin system must be confirmed before use and adjusted with amines or buffers if necessary.
Avoid mixing with strong electrolytes: Certain inorganic pigments (such as iron-based pigments), additives (certain ionic dispersants, preservatives), or salts contain strong electrolytes, which can destabilize the aluminum powder slurry, leading to flocculation, sedimentation, and a decrease in metallic appearance. Compatibility testing is recommended during formulation and before adding materials.
Selecting Appropriate Mixing Equipment: A low-speed mixer or anchor impeller is recommended. High-shear equipment (such as high-speed dispersers and sand mills) is strictly prohibited. The severe mechanical forces can abrade the aluminum flakes, causing them to deform and break, resulting in reduced gloss, darkening of color, and decreased hiding power.
Storage and Safety: Store sealed in a cool, dry place, away from high temperatures and freezing. After opening, it's recommended to use the slurry as soon as possible. Any remaining material should be sealed to prevent evaporation and the ingress of impurities. While water-based products are safer, the workplace still requires ventilation and personal protective equipment.
Conclusion:
Successful application of water-based aluminum slurry is not difficult. The key lies in understanding its characteristics and adhering to the principles of "slow speed, slow addition, pH control, and avoiding strong electrical currents." Only through meticulous application can the final coating achieve a brilliant, long-lasting metallic effect while ensuring production safety.
