CCS April Tech Talk 2026

Maximizing Pigment and Overall Paint Performance with Multifunctional Additives

Developing high-performance formulations with minimal VOC emissions remains a challenge for formulators across a variety of paints and coatings applications. Alkanolamines, which are well-known for their exceptional ability to wet, grind, and stabilize a wide range of pigments, can help formulators achieve an optimal blend of other wetting and dispersing agents, while reducing the overall VOC profile of a formulation. With their innate affinity for pigment surfaces and the ability to substitute conventional counter ions of surfactants and dispersing agents, alkanolamine additives play an essential role in influencing, and improving various critical aspects of paint and dry-film performance, such as initial particle size distribution, storage stability, hiding power, corrosion protection, and color strength. The measurement of the natural chemisorption of several alkanolamines at the surface of various pigments enable better selection of the optimal structure versus pigment nature. Moreover, particle size distribution of waterborne pigment slurries supports the optimization of dispersing agent selection for higher dry film properties. This comprehensive investigation uncovers new ways to leverage the true potential of the unique characteristics of alkanolamines when interacting with TiO2, organic pigments, and anti-corrosion pigments, making them an indispensable formulating tool for developing and manufacturing the next generation of high-performance paints and coatings.

Key-Words: Alkanolamine, Organic Pigment, Inorganic Pigment, Anti-corrosion, Dispersion, Grinding

About Our Speaker:

Dick Henderson is a Senior Technical Applications Specialist with Advancion in Buffalo Grove, IL with 43 years of experience in the paint and coatings industry. He began his career in New England at Polyvinyl Chemicals (Covestro) as a technical service chemist in the 1980’s. Dick has worked in a diverse array of additive, resin and coatings companies including Elementis Specialties, Ashland, Reichhold, Cabot Stains and AKZO Nobel in various technical and managerial positions. He is an experienced formulator for waterborne and solvent borne applications in the architectural, wood finishes, automotive and industrial markets. Dick graduated from Merrimack College with a BS degree in Biochemistry.