Guangzhou Eric Wei Chemical Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Eric Wei Chemical Co., Ltd.

Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB HEC Waterborne Thickener

Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB is a high-efficiency hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) waterborne thickener designed for latex paints and architectural coatings. It delivers excellent viscosity control, sag resistance, and spatter reduction while maintaining outstanding water retention and shear-thinning performance. Compatible with common biocides and surfactants, it ensures batch-to-batch consistency and easy dispersion without clumping.
  • ashland natrosol he 3kb hec waterborne thickener_1c328ab7
  • ashland natrosol he 3kb hec waterborne thickener_1c328ab7

Features Of Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB HEC Waterborne Thickener

  1. High-shear rheology control for excellent sag resistance and brush/roller application performance.

  2. Outstanding water retention to minimize premature drying and improve open time in cementitious and gypsum-based systems.

  3. Low foaming profile, supporting stable formulation in low-VOC and high-solids waterborne coatings.

  4. Good compatibility with common anionic and nonionic surfactants, dispersants, and biocides.

  5. Consistent batch-to-batch performance enabled by Ashland’s controlled etherification process.

Typical Applications Of Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB HEC Waterborne Thickener

  1. Interior and exterior architectural paints and coatings.

  2. Cement-based tile adhesives and grouts.

  3. Gypsum-based joint compounds and plaster finishes.

  4. Waterborne wood stains and varnishes.

  5. Latex-based caulks and sealants.

Specifications Of Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB HEC Waterborne Thickener

Chemical TypeHydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC)
Product FormFree-flowing white to off-white powder
AppearanceFree-flowing granular powder
Primary ApplicationsWaterborne architectural coatings, tile adhesives, joint compounds
Key FeaturesNon-ionic thickener, water-soluble, thermally reversible gelation
BenefitsImproved viscosity build, enhanced water retention, low foam generation
pH Range (1% aqueous solution)6.0–8.5
SolubilityReadily dispersible in cold water; fully hydrates upon aging


Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB HEC Waterborne Thickener – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary function of NATROSOL HE 3KB in waterborne formulations?

A: NATROSOL HE 3KB is a hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) thickener designed to provide efficient rheology control—particularly pseudoplastic flow behavior—in water-based systems. It enhances viscosity, improves sag resistance, and supports uniform pigment suspension without significantly affecting gloss or clarity.


Q2: How does NATROSOL HE 3KB differ from standard HEC thickeners in terms of performance?

A: HE 3KB is specifically engineered for enhanced water retention, improved compatibility with associative thickeners, and superior shear-thinning response in low-to-medium solids waterborne coatings and architectural paints. Its modified molecular structure delivers more consistent viscosity build and better spatter resistance compared to conventional HEC grades.


Q3: Is NATROSOL HE 3KB compatible with common biocides and surfactants used in waterborne coatings?

A: Yes, NATROSOL HE 3KB demonstrates broad compatibility with nonionic and anionic surfactants, as well as widely used isothiazolinone- and benzisothiazolinone-based biocides. However, optimal stability should be confirmed through formulation-specific compatibility testing under intended storage and processing conditions.


Q4: What is the recommended method for incorporating NATROSOL HE 3KB into a waterborne system?

A: For best results, pre-disperse HE 3KB in water using high-shear mixing or gradual addition under agitation to avoid agglomeration. Hydration time may vary depending on temperature and pH, but full viscosity development typically occurs within 15–60 minutes after complete dispersion and dissolution.



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