+48 15 822 45 22 laboratorium@spektrochem.pl

Technical Center of Raw Materials for Architectural Paints

Technical Center of Raw Materials for Architectural Paints
Application studies of raw materials for waterborne paints
Development of starting point formulations
Laboratory testing service
ASTM, ISO, DIN, MPI, AATCC, FTMS

PAINT RAW MATERIALS R&D SUPPORT

  • Tools for technical marketing

    Tools for technical marketing

    In our Technical Center, we cooperate with producers of raw materials for water-borne paints based on test programs tailored individually to client expectations.

    Based on case studies carried out in our laboratory, we develop test reports that are extremely helpful for the TS&D, technical marketing and R&D departments of raw material producers to develop technical materials that accelerate the implementation of raw materials on the global coatings market.

    Our laboratory specializes in formulating recipes and testing raw materials for water-based architectural, wood and metal paints, in which we test the effectiveness and performance of raw materials in formulations with different pigment volume concentration, based on various binders, additives, fillers, etc., intended for the markets of USA, Canada, North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific (based on locally available raw materials for each region).

     

    We specialize in developing:
    – start point formulations
    – case studies, e.g. comparison of raw materials
    – ladder doses, i.e. for additives performance

     

    While developing the above, we prepare paints based on raw materials from our raw material library and test samples sent by the customer, we perform tests of liquid paints, their drying processes and dried coatings. We perform tests in accordance with the standards of ASTM, ISO, Federal Test Methods, AATCC, MPI, etc.

     

    At the end of the projects, we present the client with extensive reports, photos from tests, coatings after tests and give the opportunity to visit our laboratory to summarize the test results or we summarize the project by meeting on-line.
  • Support for sustainable raw materials

    Support for sustainable raw materials

    We are focused on conducting case studies for new raw materials, in particular those based on renewable resources that meet strict ecological criteria, sustainability policy, circular economy and reduce the carbon footprint. In our laboratory, we compare conventional raw materials with bio raw materials in formulations dedicated to applications as architectural paints and varnishes, as well as wood & metal coatings.

     

    We prepare technical reports in which we compare the efficiency of conventional (petroleum-based) raw materials with raw materials from renewable resources, testing their stability in formulations dedicated to various markets, comparing the impact of individual raw materials and their doses on the properties of liquid paints and coatings.

     

    Thanks to our technical reports with extensive test results prepared for producers of sustainable raw materials, we help formulators in the R&D departments of paint manufacturers to decide on the use of a sample in tests, and thanks to the provided comparative results, we allow us to reduce the time of testing at the paint manufacturer and draw faster conclusions as to the effectiveness and validity the use of a new raw material in the production of paints.

     

  • Case studies and start point formulations

    Case studies and start point formulations

    In our laboratory, we conduct various case studies for raw materials used in the production of water-based paints. The purpose of such studies is to provide their producers with knowledge about the effectiveness in various formulations.

     

    We specialize in extensive assessment of the usability of raw materials, such as:
    • binders (latex emulsions, alkyd emulsions, epoxy emulsions)
    • fillers (e.g. ground/precipitated/modified calcium carbonate, pyrophyllite, wollastonite, nepheline syenite, ceramic microspheres, talc, quartz, cristobalite, kaolin, and many others, e.g. titanium dioxide extenders)
    • pigments (organic and inorganic, pigment concentrates, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, blocking and anti-corrosive pigments)and an extensive group of additives:
    • wetting and dispersing additives (standard dispersants, hyperdispersants)
    • defoamers (silicone, oil-based, polymer, bio-based)
    • matting (silicas, waxes and others)
    • open time extenders
    • coalescents
    • thickeners (mineral e.g. attapulgite, smectite, cellulose derivatives, HASE, ASE, HEUR and others)
    • neutralizing amines and pH regulators
    • other surfactants (aiding leveling, preventing paint from freezing, etc.)

     

    We conduct case studies in start point formulations developed in our laboratory dedicated to various markets and applications, mainly for architectural, wood and metal paints, in particular:
    • interior wall and ceiling paints (different degrees of gloss)
    • exterior paints for mineral substrates
    • wood and trim coatings
    • varnishes for general use and parquet
    • coatings for joinery 
    • direct-to-metal coatings
  • Publications and conferences

    Publications and conferences

    We are a technical contributor of the most important coatings journals in the world, and our technical articles appear several times a year in magazines in the USA, Europe and Asia, such as PCI Magazine, CoatingsTECH, Coatings World, European Coatings Journal, PPCJ, Journal of Surface Coatings of Australia, China Coatings Journal and others.

     

     

    We encourage you to read our technical articles, all of which are based on research into raw materials and case studies conducted in our laboratory.

     

    We are also present at the most important world conferences of the coatings industry where, as a speaker, we discuss our research results for raw materials conducted for our clients. Our lectures are held in at the Waterborne Symposium (New Orleans, USA), CTT Conference (Lombard, USA), Western Coatings Symposium (Las Vegas, USA), European Coatings Show and Conference (Nuremberg, Germany), EC Waterbased Conference (Berlin/Cologne, Germany), Pacific Coatings Show (Jakarta, Indonesia)

     

  • Testing service

    Testing service

    Our laboratory has extensive capabilities to test paints, varnishes and coatings in accordance with international testing methods ASTM, ISO, DIN, AATCC, SAE, Federal Test Methods, MPI, etc.

     

    We perform laboratory tests on samples prepared by our clients and prepared in our laboratory. The scope of our tests includes, among others:

    • accelerated artificial weathering (UV and xenon-arc chamber, condensation)
    • appearance (color, gloss/sheen,  yellowing, hiding power, opacity, reflectance)
    • application properties (sagging, leveling, spatter, viscosity, consistency, tixothropy)
    • drying and film forming (MFFT, low temperature coalescence, drying stages, touch-up properties, open time, etc.)
    • scrubbability and cleansability (wet-scrub resistance, stain-resistance, washability)
    • resistance to liquids (water-immersion, household chemicals, detergents, etc.)
    • dried coatings tests (adhesion, flexibility, impact resistance, hardness, blocking, mar resistance, etc.)
    • other (see testing section)

  • Raw materials business development

    Raw materials business development

    We cooperate with producers of raw materials and their business development and project departments dedicated to the implementation of new raw materials on the market or the expansion of markets for existing raw materials.

     

    If you are responsible for business development in the world of raw materials for waterborne paints for architectural/wood/metal applications and want to support your technical materials and your TS&D and R&D team with expert knowledge from specialized research dedicated to this type of paints – contact us.

     

     

Tools for technical marketing

In our Technical Center, we cooperate with producers of raw materials for water-borne paints based on test programs tailored individually to client expectations.

Based on case studies carried out in our laboratory, we develop test reports that are extremely helpful for the TS&D, technical marketing and R&D departments of raw material producers to develop technical materials that accelerate the implementation of raw materials on the global coatings market.

Our laboratory specializes in formulating recipes and testing raw materials for water-based architectural, wood and metal paints, in which we test the effectiveness and performance of raw materials in formulations with different pigment volume concentration, based on various binders, additives, fillers, etc., intended for the markets of USA, Canada, North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific (based on locally available raw materials for each region).

 

We specialize in developing:
– start point formulations
– case studies, e.g. comparison of raw materials
– ladder doses, i.e. for additives performance

 

While developing the above, we prepare paints based on raw materials from our raw material library and test samples sent by the customer, we perform tests of liquid paints, their drying processes and dried coatings. We perform tests in accordance with the standards of ASTM, ISO, Federal Test Methods, AATCC, MPI, etc.

 

At the end of the projects, we present the client with extensive reports, photos from tests, coatings after tests and give the opportunity to visit our laboratory to summarize the test results or we summarize the project by meeting on-line.

Testing Service

  • Liquid properties
    Liquid properties
    Liquid properties

    Liquid properties

    Liquid property tests concern those paint parameters that are measured prior to application to the substrate. They include basic tests such as pH, fineness of dispersion, storage stability, non-volatile content by weight or volume and other.

     

    These tests are an integral part of the data needed to compile technical data sheets, but also to learn about the performance of paints, such as stability to freezing and thawing or flash point.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Sampling ASTM D3925, ISO 123, ISO 15528
    Sample preparation before tests ISO 1513, ISO 15528, FED-STD 141D method 3011.3
    Coarse particles ASTM D185
    Density and weight per gallon ASTM D1475, ISO 2811-1
    Fineness of grind ASTM D1210 (Hegman), ISO 1524
    pH ASTM E70, ISO 976, ISO 19396-1, EN 1245
    Package stability ASTM D1849
    Determination of settling ASTM D869, ASTM D1309, BS ISO 21545
    Non-volatile matter ASTM D1644, ISO 3251
    Volume solids ASTM D2697, ISO 3233
    Non-volatile in TiO2 slurries ASTM D3926
    Flash point ASTM D3278, ASTM D3828, ISO 3679
    Pot-life of 2K systems ISO 9514
    Volatile organic compound (VOC) ASTM D3960, ISO 11890-2
    Other upon request

     

  • Rheological properties
    Rheological properties
    Rheological properties

    Rheological properties

    We perform tests of paints and formulations with various rheological additives based on determinations ranging from apparent viscosity, efflux time, through dynamic viscosity, to the thixotropy index and sagging, leveling, etc.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Consistency (mid-shear viscosity) ASTM D562 method B (digital Stormer viscometer)
    ICI-viscosity (high-shear viscosity) ASTM D4287 (cone & plate)
    Apparent viscosity (Brookfield) ASTM D2196 method A, ISO 2555
    Viscosity under defined shear rate ISO 3219 annex A (coaxial cylinders)
    Efflux time ASTM D1200 (Ford cups), ISO 2431 / ASTM D5125
    Leveling ASTM D4062
    Anti-sag index ASTM D4400
    Brush drag ASTM D5068, ASTM D4958
    Spatter resistance (notch roller test) ASTM D4707
    Other upon request
  • Drying and film forming
    Drying and film forming
    Drying and film forming

    Drying and film forming

    Tests of coating formation and drying in various temperature and humidity conditions and with the use of various test methods. We test the formation of a polymer dispersion film with different coalescing agents and other additives, the coalescence of coatings at low temperatures, wet edge, open time and drying time/drying stage for water-based paints.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Minimum Film Forming Temperature (MFFT) ASTM D2354, ISO 2115
    Low temperature coalescence (LTC) ASTM D7306, D3793
    Surface drying time (Ballotini) ISO 9117-3
    Drying time – mechanical recorder ASTM D5895, ISO 9117-4
    Drying time – modified Bandow-Wolff test ISO 9117-5
    Drying properties ASTM D1640
    Open time of latex paints ASTM D7488
    Touch-up properties ASTM D3928, D7489
    Other upon request
  • Appearance of dry film
    Appearance of dry film
    Appearance of dry film

    Appearance of dry film

    The appearance of the coatings is assessed by instrumental methods of measuring color coordinates (L* a* b*, X, Y, Z, Munsell, etc.) , shade changes (e.g. DE*ab, DE2000, gray scale AATCC), as well as reflectance, sheen and gloss.

     

    The scope of the tests also includes assessment of the penetration of stains from the substrate, e.g. ink stainblocking, blocking tannin stains, nicotine stains, soot stains, etc., and also enamel holdout properties of top-coat paints and primers/undercoaters.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Color coordinates and color change ASTM D2244, ASTM E1164, ASTM E2970, ISO 7724-1, ISO 7724-2, ISO 7724-3, ISO 11664-4
    AATCC gray scale color/shade change ASTM E3040, ASTM D2616, EN 12105-A02
    Whiteness (WI) and Yellowness Index (YI) ASTM E313
    Reflectance ASTM E1347
    Sheen and gloss ASTM D523, ISO 2813
    Burnish resistance (increase of sheen/gloss) ASTM D6736
    Reflection haze of high gloss coatings ASTM D4039
    Color acceptance ASTM D5326
    Enamel holdout ASTM D7786
    Ink stainblocking ASTM D7514
    Tannin stain resistance/blocking ASTM D6686
    Other upon request
  • Hiding power and opacity
    Hiding power and opacity
    Hiding power and opacity

    Hiding power and opacity

    Hiding power of paints is a parameter that depends on titanium dioxide, non-volatile parts, fillers, opaque polymers and a number of other properties of the formulation. In our laboratory we test formulations in terms of their hiding power properties with various raw materials.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Hiding power by brush application ASTM D344
    Hiding power by roller application ASTM D5150
    Hiding power by reflectometry ASTM D2805
    Wet-to-dry hiding change ASTM D5007
    Hiding power of paints for concrete ISO 6504-3
    Other upon request
  • Scrubbability and washability
    Scrubbability and washability
    Scrubbability and washability

    Scrubbability and washability

    Scrubbability tests are performed with architectural paints for painting walls. In the field of scrub resistance, we test the strength of various formulations depending on the type of polymer dispersion, fillers, PVC, CPVC, additives and others.

     

    The tests are based on the worldwide methods of determining wet-scrub resistance, washability, burnish resistance, cleanability and stain resistance (see menu stain resistance).

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Wet-scrub resistance – cycles to failure ASTM D2486, DIN 53778-2, Federal Spec. TT-P-29K
    Wet-scrub resistance – weight loss ASTM D4213
    Wet-scrub resistance – thickness loss ISO 11998
    Classification of wet-scrub resistance EN 13300 (after 40 or 200 cycles)
    Burnish resistance ASTM D6736
    Other upon request
  • Stain resistance
    Stain resistance
    Stain resistance

    Stain resistance

    Tests of resistance of wall paint coatings to removing stains, e.g. foodstuffs, dirt and their susceptibility to washing off after a specified time. We carry out comprehensive tests based on individual test programs, tests of stain resistant additives, comparative tests, etc.

     

    We prepare formulations for testing with various additives, waxes, polymer dispersions, and stain resistant agents for further evaluation by test methods:

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Cleanability of wall paints ASTM D4828*, DIN 53778-2**, ISO 11998***
    Washability of wall paints ASTM D3450
    Resistance to household chemicals ASTM D1308
    Resistance to liquids ISO 2812-3, ISO 2812-4
    Dirt pick-up test UNI 10792
    Other upon request
     

    Standard soilants:

    *Pencil, crayon, mercurochrome, ball pen, whiteboard marker, lipstick and soilant ASTM D3450

    **pencil Mars-Lumograph HB100, wax crayon Pelikan, drawing charcoal

    ***staining media agreed with the customer

    for each test it is possible to choose other media, e.g. wine, coffee, ketchup, mustard, beverages and other agreed with the client

     

    After the tests, the report includes photos and an extensive assessment of changes in the coatings (color, gloss, sheen, etc.)

     

  • Resistance to liquids
    Resistance to liquids
    Resistance to liquids

    Resistance to liquids

    Liquid resistance tests include checking the behavior of the coatings in contact with liquid media, such as water, aggressive chemicals, detergents, solvents, etc.

     

    Liquid resistance tests are also all tests in which the reaction of the coating to contact with various liquids is checked, e.g. leaching, water permeability, the effectiveness of coating removers, etc.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Water immersion resistance ASTM D870, ISO 2812-2
    Resistance to other liquids in immersion ISO 2812-1
    Resistance to liquids with absorbent material ISO 2812-3
    Spotting method ISO 2812-4 method A and B
    Resistance to household chemicals ASTM D1308
    Detergent resistance ASTM D2248
    Resistance to fuels and solvents ASTM D2792
    Resistance to solvents (solvent rubs) ASTM D5402 method A
    Efficiency of coatings removers (paint strippers) ASTM D6189
    Water permeability EN 1062-3
    Surfactant leaching from façade paints ASTM D7190, BS EN 16105
    Condensation test in 100 % humidity ASTM D4585, ISO 6270-1
    Resistance to efflorescence ASTM D7072
    Hydrostatic pressure resistance ASTM D7088
    Chlorine resistance EN 15836-1, -2 annex C
    Resistance to staining media EN 15836-1, -2 annex D
    Other upon request
  • Dry film properties
    Dry film properties
    Dry film properties

    Dry film properties

    Dry film tests are very important for the properties of coatings expected by their users during operation. Hardness, flexibility, adhesion, but also blocking properties, coating thickness and abrasion resistance – these are very important properties of dried coatings.

     

    If you are looking for wet scrub resistance tests – go to the ‘Scrubbability and Washability section’

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Abrasion resistance ASTM D968 method A and B (falling sand method), ASTM D4060 (Taber rotary abraser)
    Cross-cut, X-cut, tape-adhesion ASTM D3359 method A and B, ISO 2409
    Pull-off adhesion to metal, wood or plastics ASTM D4541, ISO 4624
    Adhesion to concrete ASTM D7234, EN 1542, ISO 4624
    Wet-adhesion to alkyd-enamel coatings ASTM D6900
    Scrape adhesion ASTM D2197
    Mar resistance ASTM D5178, ISO 1518-1
    Flexibility – bend test (cylindrical mandrel) ASTM D522 method B, ISO 1519
    Flexibility (conical mandrel) ASTM D522 method A, ISO 6860
    Blocking resistance ASTM D4949
    Print resistance ASTM D2064
    Pencil hardness ASTM D3363, ISO 15184
    Pendulum damping test ASTM D4366, ISO 1522
    Buchholz indentation test ISO 2815
    Destructive method of coatings thickness measurement ASTM D4138 method A (P.I.G.), ISO 2808 method 6B
    Non-destructive thickness measurement ASTM D7091, ISO 2808 method 10 (ultrasonic method)
    Free-films thickness measurement ASTM D1005, ISO 2808 method 4A
    Wet film thickness ASTM D4414 and ISO 2808 method 1A
    Water-vapor permeability ASTM D1653, ISO 7783
    Impact resistance ASTM D2794, ISO 6272-2, ISO 6272-1
    Other upon request
  • Artificial weathering
    Artificial weathering
    Artificial weathering

    Artificial weathering

    Weathering & lightfastness tests are carried out in our laboratory in xenon-arc and UV radiation chambers. The chambers are equipped with a precise radiation monitoring system, rainfall and condensation. For all tests, there is a water control system used for testing with all water parameters determined during testing in accordance with ASTM.

     

    Tests in laboratory chambers are carried out in accordance with the standards as in the table below, however, taking into account the guidelines included additionally in the standards:

    ·         ASTM G154 – for all exposure tests in fluorescent UV chamber

    ·         ASTM G155 – for all exposure tests in xenon-arc chamber

     

    In the field of tests in the xenon-arc chamber, we use various filters (basic daylight filters, window-glass filter and special ones, e.g., cutting off of infrared, a part of ultraviolet, etc.)

     

    For tests in the UV chamber, we use exposure using three types of lamps to choose from: UVA-340, UVA-351 and UVB-313.

    In terms of tests, we offer the selection of appropriate exposure cycles and cycles both in the xenon-arc chamber and with ultraviolet radiation.

     

     
    Scope of tests Xenon-arc chamber Fluorescent UV chamber
    Interior and exterior paints (coatings), façade and roof paints, plasters, enamels, trim coatings, etc. ASTM G155, ASTM D6695

    ISO 16747-2

    		 ASTM D4587, ASTM G154

    ISO 16474-3
    Elastomeric roof coatings ASTM D6083 (7.3, 7.8)
    Wood coatings EN 927-6
    Coil coated materials EN 13523-10
    Transportation coatings ASTM D7869
    Wind turbines weathering ISO/TS 19392-1 ISO/TS 19392-1
    Plastics (interior and exterior) ASTM D4459, ASTM D2265

    ISO 4892-2

    		 ASTM D4329

    ISO 4892-3
    Plastics (automotive) SAE J2020
    Plastic lumber decking ASTM D6662 section 6.3
    Textiles AATCC TM169

    ISO 4892-2

    		 AATCC TM189

    ISO 4892-3
    Lightfastness ISO 150-B02
    Bituminous materials ASTM D4798 ASTM D4799
    Swimming pool PVC membranes EN 15836-1, -2 table 4
    Other upon request in both types of chambers
     

    We perform tests for reference samples, in correlation with tests in natural weather conditions or to obtain certain types of changes agreed with the client.

     

    The test report includes a comprehensive description of the course of the tests, changes occurring during the exposure (inter-operative or post-test assessment of changes) and photos. See also the section “evaluation of changes”.
  • Natural weathering
    Natural weathering
    Natural weathering

    Natural weathering

    Tests of coatings and other materials in natural weather conditions are divided into:

    – exposure of samples to natural weather conditions (direct exposure)

    – exposure of samples to accelerated natural weather conditions (e.g. black box, concentrators)

     

    Tests are carried out by subcontracting laboratories cooperating with us from all over the world. We have partners with whom we regularly visit their research stations in the USA (Arizona desert and the subtropical climate in Florida), Canada, Brazil, India, China, Australia, UAE and Europe.

     

    We deal with the comprehensive preparation of test panels, shipment, project coordination and supervision of the test run, as well as the return of samples and evaluation of changes.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Natural outdoor weathering
    Direct exposure of wood coatings ASTM D1006, ISO 877-2
    Direct exposure of metal coatings ASTM D1014, ISO 877-2
    Other coatings ASTM G7
    Plastics ASTM D1435
    Natural exposure through window glass ASTM G24 type A, ISO 877-2
    Other upon request
    Outdoor accelerated weathering
    Black box exposure ASTM D4141 method A
    Black box exposure in black box through glass ASTM G24 type B
    Concentrated sunlight exposure for coatings ASTM G90, ASTM D4141 method B, ISO 877-3
    Concentrated sunlight exposure for plastics ASTM D4364
    Concentrated sunlight and soak-freeze-thaw procedure ASTM D5722
    Other upon request
     

    We perform tests for reference samples, in correlation with tests in natural weather conditions or to obtain certain types of changes agreed with the client. The test report includes a comprehensive description of the course of the tests, changes occurring during the exposure (inter-operative or post-test assessment of changes) and photos. See also the section “evaluation of changes”
  • Thermal cycling
    Thermal cycling
    Thermal cycling

    Thermal cycling

    Resistance to changing temperatures is determined for cured coatings on various surfaces. The tests carried out in our laboratory concern thermal changes in repeated cycles of freezing-thawing, as well as immersion in water.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Freeze – thaw – immersion ASTM D6944 method A
    Freeze – thaw ASTM D6944 method B
    Temperature change ASTM D1211
    Other upon request
     

    After the tests, the report includes photos, also under the microscope, extensive assessment of changes in the coatings (see “evaluation of changes”) and evaluation of physical properties (adhesion, flexibility, etc.)
  • Evaluation of changes
    Evaluation of changes
    Evaluation of changes

    Evaluation of changes

    Assessment of changes in coatings is always carried out after weathering, resistance to stains, liquid media, and other tests where visual changes occur, e.g. cracking, blistering, color shade change, gloss, etc.

     

    Assessments are carried out using instrumental and visual methods, depending on the type of test and the assessment method. The scope of the assessment of changes each time covers the full scope of the following standards, and the report includes complete assessments with photos and results of other tests showing the changes (e.g. change in adhesion, hardness, flexibility, etc.)

     
    Scope of tests Inspected properties Standards
    Basic assessment of changes Blistering ASTM D714, ISO 4628-2
    Chalking ASTM D4214, ISO 4628-7
    Checking ASTM D660
    Cracking ASTM D661, ISO 4628-4
    Visual color assessment ASTM D1729, ISO 3668
    Corrosion ASTM D1654, ISO 4628-8, ISO 4628-10
    Dirt accumulation ASTM D3274
    Erosion ASTM D662
    Flaking ASTM D772, ISO 4628-5
    Mold growth ASTM D3274
    Rusting ASTM D610, ISO 4628-3
    Instrumental assessment of appearance changes Color change ASTM D2244, ASTM E1164, ISO 7724-1, -2, -3, ISO 11664-4 (e.g. L* a* b*, DE*ab, DL*, Da*, Db* and other systems)
    Gray scale AATCC change ASTM D3040, ASTM D2616, EN 20105-A02
    Whiteness and yellowness ASTM D313 (WI and YI)
    Reflectance ASTM E1347
    Other upon request

     

  • Paint additives
    Paint additives
    Paint additives

    Paint additives

    We have developed comprehensive test programs for each type of additives, both for testing new additives as well as for checking the effectiveness of existing additives in wall paints, wood coatings, exterior paints, roof coatings and other architectural paint applications in the full range of pigment volume concentration and based on different binders, fillers and other raw materials.

     

    We also conduct comprehensive multi-path testing of additives in specific client systems or our calibrated formulations, we set recommendations and application guides and we develop start point formulations.

     

    Our research and testing includes:

    ·         Wetting and dispersing agents, e.g. sodium polyphosphate, carboxylic acid salts, branched polymeric dispersants, high molar dispersants, etc.

    ·         Rheological additives, cellulose derivatives, alkali swellable (HASE, ASE), HEUR, xanthan-gum, attapulgite, magnesium aluminium silicate, and other

    ·         Plasticizers and coalescing agents, for decreasing of MFFT, for permanently flexibility of coatings, etc.

    ·         Co-solvents for additional dissolving of thickeners (e.g. HEUR)

    ·         Adhesion promoters for wood and plastics water-borne systems

    ·         Defoamers, mineral-oil based, silicone-based, polymer-based, vegetable-oil based, etc.

    ·         Additives for surface modification, e.g. matting agents, waxes, etc.

    ·         Flow and levelling, e.g. slip additives,

    ·         Driers for water-borne alkyd systems

    ·         Additives for special function (e.g. anti-skinning additives, light stabilizers, corrosion inhibitors, biocides, etc.)

    ·         Other special and new additives for water-borne architectural paints

     

    Below we present examples of the scopes of the most frequently performed research works. All test programs are individually determined in accordance with the client’s needs and budget.

     

    The tests are also performed as comparisons to competitive raw materials from various markets.

     
    Service Lab procedure
    Preparation of recipes with various PVC, binders, fillers, etc. and with various doses of additives (test and reference), according to internal lab SOP’s Liquid paint tests, determination of stability, color development, etc., application of coatings and evaluation of drying and forming processes, tests of coating properties, e.g. strength, optical properties, liquid-media resistance, weathering and much more. Tests conducted in accordance with international standards
    Foam formation on surface active agent solutions (e.g. dispersing agents) ASTM D1173 and internal lab SOP’s
    The efficiency of defoamers ASTM D1173 and internal lab SOP’s, e.g. roller tests, evaluation of film defects, film properties, influence of defoamer to leaching, gloss retention, weathering, etc.
    The action of additive in paints with hard water, soft water, demineralized water, etc. Internal lab SOP’s with stability tests, evaluation of film formation properties, dry film resistance to various properties
    Coalescing agent curves with the effect on MFFT ASTM D2354, ISO 2115 and internal lab SOP’s
    Effectiveness of thickeners Comprehensive case studies programs including rheological properties, stability, properties of dry coatings
    Driers and anti-skinning agents Case studies with different alkyd emulsions, doses of driers, tests of drying properties in all stages, properties of the coatings, etc.
    Waxes, matting agents Preparation of wax suspensions, stability tests, influence of film properties, testing of hardness, matting properties, durability of coatings, stain-resistance, etc.
    Other upon request
  • Polymer latex binders
    Polymer latex binders
    Polymer latex binders

    Polymer latex binders

    Polymer dispersion tests performed in our laboratory are divided into:

    ·         tests of polymer dispersion properties to determine compliance with the specification, assess the repeatability of delivery, etc.

    ·         tests of the influence of polymer dispersions on the properties of paints and coatings in individual formulations, PVC’s, synergy with other raw materials, selection of coalescents, plasticizers, etc.

     

    We carry out comprehensive tests and consultations in the selection of polymer dispersion for various water-based systems, including systems based on water glass (silicate paints and plasters)

     
    Scope of tests / Guide Test Standards
    ASTM D4143

    Guide for testing latex vehicles

    		 Sampling ASTM D3925
    Non-volatile content ASTM D2369, ASTM D4758
    Minimum Film Forming Temperature (MFFT) ASTM D2354
    Qualitative polymer analysis ASTM D3168
    Density ASTM D1475
    Viscosity ASTM D2196, ASTM D562
    Water content ASTM D3792, ASTM D4017
    pH ASTM E70
    Surface tension ASTM D1417
    Freeze-thaw resistance ASTM D2243*
    ISO 7143 and ISO 12000

    Methods for characterizing waterbased binders

    		 Sampling ISO 15528, ISO 123
    Non-volatile content ISO 3251
    Minimum Film Forming Temperature (MFFT) ISO 2115
    Density ISO 2811-1
    Viscosity ISO 3219, ISO 2555
    pH ISO 976
    Surface tension ISO 1409
    Coagulum content ISO 4576
    Particle size distribution ISO 13220
    Residual monomers ISO 13741-2
    Glass transition temperature ISO 16805
    MEQ-value ISO 15880
    Molecular mass ISO 13885-1
    Freeze-thaw resistance ISO 1147
    Selection of coalescing agents and plasticizers Coalescence curves based on MFFT Internal lab SOP
    Influence of polymer dispersions on coating properties (e.g. wet-scrub resistance, hardness, gloss, etc.) Internal lab SOP with international test methods (see other section in Testing menu)
    Comprehensive tests on paints of various PVC ranges and intended use, e.g. interior latex paints, façade paints, wood coatings, clear varnishes, etc. Tests of compatibility of the polymer dispersion with additives Internal lab SOP
    Preparation of recipes and paints for tests dedicated to various world markets Internal lab SOP
    Determining the dependence of PVC on the properties of coatings Internal lab SOP
    Benchmarking comparisons Internal lab SOP
    Comparisons of the strength of coatings based on various binders in weathering and lightfastness tests Internal lab SOP
    Other upon request
     

    *The method is not mentioned in ASTM D4143 but it is appropriate for determining freeze-thaw stability
  • Fillers and pigments
    Fillers and pigments
    Fillers and pigments

    Fillers and pigments

    Our laboratory conducts extensive tests of pigments, fillers and reinforcements used in dispersion systems of water-based paints and varnishes. We develop individual test programs tailored to the customer’s needs and meeting the expectations regarding the data to be provided from the tests performed.

     

    Below we present examples of tests performed according to standardized test methods, however, their scope and application are each time adjusted to water-based paints and the use of pigments and fillers in architectural dispersion paints and varnishes.

     

    We conduct tests in accordance with test programs established through our experience and knowledge of the characteristics of pigments and fillers and their evaluation in various architectural paint systems.

     

    The subject of our tests and laboratory studies are, among others:

    ·         Titanium dioxide pigments (rutil and anatase, different grades ASTM D476 and ISO 591-1)

    ·         Prime pigments and fillers: e.g. ground and calcinated kaolin, iron oxide pigments, etc.

    ·         Reinforcements and functional fillers: e.g. nepheline syenite, wollastonite, talc, etc.

    ·         Standard fillers: e.g. GCC (ground calcium carbonate), PCC (precipitated calcium carbonate), etc.

    ·         Slurries: suspensions of pigments and fillers, ready to use TiO2 slurries, etc.

     
    Scope of test Standards / Test method
    Oil absorption ASTM D281, ASTM D1483, ISO 787-5
    Dispersibility ASTM D6619, ISO 8780-1, ISO 8780-3, ISO 8780-4, ISO 8781-1, ISO 8781-2, ISO 8781-3, internal procedures dedicated for latex paints
    Relative tinting strength ASTM D4838, ASTM D2745
    pH of aqueous suspension ISO 787-9
    Moisture ASTM D280
    Solid content in slurries ASTM D3926
    Resistivity of extracting pigment and fillers ASTM D2248, ISO 787-14
    Coarse particles ASTM D185
    ASTM D5326
    Other upon request
     

    We use pigments and fillers to prepare test paints with a different range of PVC, based on various other raw materials, in order to make comparisons, case studies and laboratory tests of the impact on various properties of paints and coatings (e.g. effect on hiding power, gloss/sheen, mechanical properties of dried coatings, weathering & lightfastness resistance, rheology and stability properties of liquid paints, color development, etc.)

     

    For the scope of paint and coating tests, visit the other tests in the Testing Service menu.

     

  • Paint preservatives
    Paint preservatives
    Paint preservatives

    Paint preservatives

    Microbiological tests are a new item in our offer. The scope includes testing programs for dispersion paints for the development of formulation, biocides dose levels test by “in-can” tests as and tests of dried coatings for the development of film preservatives against mold, fungus and algae growth.

     

    “In-can” microbiological tests are carried out on test organisms Klebsiela aerogenes (ATCC #13048), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC #10145) and additional Bacillus subtilus (ATCC #27328) and other organisms agreed with the client. In the field of tests of coatings in terms of fungal and algae growth, tests are carried out on coatings subjected to natural and artificial weathering processes and other operations aimed at washing out components from the coatings so that the test is carried out with reference to the coatings operated after a specified time.

     
    Scope of tests Standards
    Resistance of attack in container “in-can” ASTM D2574
    Resistance of mold growth for interior paints ASTM D3273
    Accumulation of dirt and growth of mold and algae on exterior paints ASTM D3274
    Susceptibility of paint films to microbiological attack ASTM D3456
    Fungal defacement by accelerated four-week agar plate assay ASTM D5590
    Other upon request

     

  • Plasters and mastics
    Plasters and mastics
    Plasters and mastics

    Plasters and mastics

    Our laboratory conducts tests of plasters based on organic acrylic dispersions, silicone-modified and inorganic silicate binders. The scope of the tests includes conformity assessments and classifications according to local standards, e.g.

    ·         EN 15824 – classification of interior and exterior plasters in Europe

    ·         ASTM C647 – evaluation of plasters and mastics for facade coatings on thermal insulation systems in the United States and Canada

     

    We conduct tests of various formulations in order to select the optimal dose of binder, filler system, modification of open time, coalescence at low temperatures, color stability of facade coatings (natural and artificial weathering) and other.

     

    The scope of plaster tests depends on the customer’s requirements and market habits. Below is a general test list for reference only. We also perform plaster tests according to other standards on request.

     
    Scope of tests Standards / Test method
    European classification EN 15824
    Water-vapor permeability ISO 7783
    Water permeability EN 1062-3
    Adhesion EN 1524
    Durability EN 13687-3
    Thermal properties EN 1745*
    Reaction to fire EN 13501-1+A1*
    ASTM C647 standard (selected properties)
    Application properties Gap filling and bridging, corrosion or solvent attack, drying time and curing time, shrinkage, freeze-thaw stability and more
    Environmental resistance Temperature limits, chemicals and water resistance, mold and mildew resistance*,
    Flammability Wet-flammability*, surface flammability*
    Damage resistance Adhesion, impact resistance, abrasion resistance,
    Other upon request
    Other properties
    Articicial weathering tests Xenon-arc chamber: ASTM G154, ISO 16474-2

    Fluorescent UV chamber: ASTM G155, ISO 16474-3
    Natural weathering Direct exposure: ASTM G7

    Throught window glass: ASTM G24 type A, ISO 877-2

    Accelerated outdoor weathering: ASTM D4141 method B, ASTM D5722, ISO 877-3
    Other upon request
     

    * Test performed at the subcontractor’s premises. The Spektrochem Laboratory takes over all the formalities and subcontracting the sample tests.

LABORATORY

The Spektrochem Paint Laboratory is a specialized team of experts who have been involved in the development of architectural paint formulations for over 15 years, as well as laboratory tests, expert opinions and education in the field of raw materials for paint production. The laboratory is a member of ASTM International (USA) – one of the largest standards development organizations in the world.
Our expertise includes water-borne architectural paints, including all matte and other sheen/gloss paints for interior and facade painting, based on acrylic, styrene-acrylic, VAE binders, vinyl acetate copolymers with acrylates, as well as wood coatings (alkyd, acrylic), liquid roofing membranes, 2K epoxy floor paints and exterior acrylic plasters.
Our experts follow test methods from ASTM, ISO, DIN, AATCC, SAE, Federal Specifications, and many others.
Do you need help with product development? Are you looking for an experienced testing lab or consulting expert?

Contact

15 Dabrowskiej Str. 39-400 Tarnobrzeg

Poland

+48 15 822 45 22

9:00am – 4:00pm CET/CEST

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    Spektrochem Paint Laboratory
    ul. Dąbrowskiej 15, 39-400 Tarnobrzeg
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