Eastman coalescents, or coalescing aids, assist film formation in latex paints and temporarily soften the latex particles, allowing them to fuse into a continuous film. Common coalescents include ester alcohols and glycol ethers.
Characteristics of good coalescents:
- Improves the overall performance of the paint
- Decreases porosity
- Improves washability and gloss
- Allow good film formation under adverse conditions (low temperature etc.)
Other important properties of coalescents include:
- Hydrolytic stability
- Compatibility with a wide range of latex types and paint additives
- Ease of use
Eastman coalescing aids include:
Texanol ester alcohol
Eastman EB solvent
Eastman DB solvent
Eastman EEH solvent
Eastman TXIB plasticizer