Formulating paints and coatings to provide the right balance of properties is a complex undertaking. Getting the rheology profile correct is just one important task on the formulator's to-do list, but it is crucial to the ultimate success of the coating. The rheology profile influences properties of the coating throughout its lifetime, from manufacture, storage, mixing, and application, to the resulting film properties. To control and optimize the rheology of liquid coatings, the formulator typically relies on additives, often referred to as rheology modifiers, thickeners, and thixotropes. This article reviews some of the basics of rheology and rheological additives and includes comments from a roundtable discussion with industry experts on existing challenges and new developments.
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