Ashland to launch easy dispersible HEC paint thickening technology

Ashland Specialty Ingredients, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc, will introduce Natrosol Performax™ hydroxyethylcellulose, a break-through paint thickening technology, at the ChinaCoat 2012 trade show in November.

Natrosol Performax comprises a range of hydroxyethylcellulose thickeners that delivers unprecedented process flexibility and quality control to paint manufacturers. The patent pending technology triggers rapid and complete dispersion in any water-based medium, even under low shear conditions. This allows manufacturers to add HEC in dry form at any point of the manufacturing process, eliminating extra process steps like the preparation of pre-slurries or dissolutions of HEC, saving operational costs. The end result is a faster, more efficient, less costly production process – and better paint quality.

"Ashland has a strong presence in China and a long history of collaborating with our customers in the development of innovative and new solutions, so we’re pleased to launch Natrosol Performax in the region,” said Shruti Singhal, global marketing director for Ashland Specialty Ingredients. "The Chinese market for coatings continues to expand despite the recent global recession and is an important part of Ashland’s growth strategy.”

In addition to delivering process benefits, Natrosol Performax thickeners enhance paint quality and preserve critical performance characteristics, such as efficient thickening, stability, color compatibility and sag resistance.

"Natrosol Performax is a great option for paint manufacturers who want to gain better control of their manufacturing process,” said Dr. Hilbert Esselbrugge, new product leader for Ashland Specialty Ingredients. "Easy dispersion at any point of the paint manufacturing process enables a faster and more flexible production process, resulting in improved plant output and energy savings. It gives paint manufacturers increased formulation latitude due to the freed-up water,” he said.

Natrosol Performax is part of the Ashland line of Natrosol™ hydroxyethylcellulose, the leading HEC thickeners for waterborne architectural coatings for more than 50 years. Natrosol brand products deliver cost savings combined with robust thickening and creamy in-can consistency. For more information about Natrosol Performax, visit www.ashland.com/natrosolperformax