Benaqua 4000 Elementis Rheology Modifiers / Thickeners >> Organoclay >> Hectocrite SEALANT ADHESIVE >> Water-based BENAQUA 4000 rheological additive is an easily dispersible powder designed for lower-gloss and matt emulsion paints, textured and high-build coatings and water-borne adhesives. It is especially useful in systems that are diluted with water prior to use. BENAQUA 4000 provides high viscosity in the low- to medium-shear-rate region. It gives superior sag resistance at low package viscosity compared with conventional thickeners, as well as improved shear-thinning rheology. Textured and stippled effects are enhanced and paints exhibit a richer appearance. Adhesives: Ready mixed, Powder Mastics and sealants rheological properties good mid-shear-rate viscosity excellent shear-thinning excellent suspension application performance efficient spray atomisation enhanced textured and stippling effects (roller or spray applied) minimised mud cracking superior sag resistance paint stability good storage stability at elevated temperature good freeze/thaw stability enzyme resistance colourant addition stability easy to use easily incorporated in the mill-base and letdown stages or as aqueous pre-gel Incorporation BENAQUA 4000 additive can be added via a choice of methods, depending on the equipment available and the formulation type. It is not shear sensitive and is easily incorporated directly in the mill-base or via a pre-gel before the letdown stages. The key to developing optimum performance is to achieve good wetting and hydration. Optimum mixing conditions are obtainable with a toothed blade disperser (e.g. Cowles) run at high peripheral speeds, or rotor stator mixers. Because BENAQUA 4000 is partially associative, its full thickening efficiency may not be realised until the resin is added to the system. pH adjustment of the batch to pH 8.5–10.0 will enhance performance. Mill-base Addition BENAQUA 4000 is added to water (pH 8.5–10.0) and mixed at moderate speed until a smooth dispersion is formed (5–10 min.). The remaining ingredients are added and dispersed under high shear. The letdown stage is completed and the batch adjusted to pH 8.8–10.0. Alternatively, BENAQUA 4000 can be added as the last ingredient in the mill-base and dispersed for 15 min. This result in improved pigment wetting, shortened dispersion times and minimum foam development. Use with other thickeners BENAQUA 4000 can be used with other thickeners. It may be used to improve sag resistance, impart anti-settling, enhance water release and reduce syneresis. Levelling of systems containing BENAQUA 4000 will be improved by partial replacement with RHEOLATE® 278 rheology modifier. Levels of Use The typical levels of use for BENAQUA 4000 are 0.3% to 1.7% by weight. Storage and Handling Store in a dry place. BENAQUA 4000 additive will absorb moisture in high humidity conditions. ** The pH adjustment point will depend on the type of formulation used: • low pH binders and/or lower-PVC (<50%) systems – adjust pH of the dispersion water • neutral-alkaline binders and/or higher-PVC (>50%) systems, or where the water for dispersion is limited – adjust pH after letdown Easily dispersible rheological additive in powder. Can be used in mastics, sealants and water-borne adhesives. Provides high viscosity in the low- to medium-shear-rate region. Gives good sag resistance at low package viscosity, improved shear-thinning rheology. Impart anti-settling, enhance water release and reduce syneresis. Levels of use: 0.3% to 1.7% by weight.