Recent popularity of thin aluminum flakes for chrome replacement has stimulated development activities to push the limits of color and performance of these pigments in waterbased systems. This presentation will explore the multiple options for surface treatments of these aluminum flakes and the effect these treatments have on final color, sparkle, opacity, gassing, dispersion, shear and chemical resistance in both interior and exterior coatings. Visual assessment and instrumental analysis of coatings containing these pigments will be discussed. Also addressed will be the options available for pigment carrier and delivery form, such as paste, powder and solvent free granules, designed to perform in the most demanding low VOC coating systems. Proper dispersion and formulating practices will also be explored.
