Optimal Selection of Leveling Agent for Paints and Coatings

If you are exploring the factors that govern leveling in any formulation, it might be worth to begin with an in-depth understanding of leveling basics (surface tension, contact angle, test method, etc.) at first.

Which leveling agent is suitable for your formulation?

There are several base chemistries to choose from when selecting a leveling agent & lower the surface tension to the point just that you need for a desired application.

The most common types of leveling agents are listed below.

Silicone-based agents (Polydimethylsiloxane modified - PDMS)

Acrylate-based agents (Polyacrylate)

Fluorocarbon-based agents (Modified Fluorocarbons)

Hydrocarbon-based leveling agents: less efficient than previous families

Understand each chemistry in detail and see which one fits best for your formulation & end-application needs.

Silicone oils are important tools in vitreoretinal surgery and their introduction has represented a pivotal moment in the management of ophthalmic surgery as they are equipped with a combination of chemical and physical properties that have propelled their surgical use. Silicone oils are essentially used as intraocular tamponade thanks to their ability to maintain the adhesion between retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE).

The safe and effective use of tamponade substances means the knowledge of their physical and chemical properties because it is on the basis of this knowledge that surgeons have to decide what type of tamponade they should use.