Solvents- Unit Six (Federation Series on Coatings Technology)

The primary function of solvents is to dissolve film formers, thereby providing a consistency suitable for application. It is quite apparent that the choice of solvents influences viscosity, flowing properties and drying rate. They also produce several less obvious effects. Depending on the kind of solvents, a given polymer may be dispersed molecularly or much short of it. The degree of dispersion influences viscosity gloss, pigment dispersion and the fundamental dry film properties, such as flexibility, hardness, strength and exterior durability.