Ashland NATROSOL HE 3KB is a high-quality all-in-one hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) aqueous thickener in the NATROSOL™ series. Custom-designed for precise rheology control of various architectural coatings, it features hydrophobically modified synergistic properties, with core advantages of high thickening efficiency and low sensitivity to system environment, comprehensively optimizing coating application and storage performance
All-in-One Rheology Control - Combines excellent thickening and leveling properties, precisely controlling coating rheology
Broad Environmental Compatibility - Thickening efficiency slightly affected by pH and surfactants, strong system adaptability
Application Performance Optimization - Enhances anti-splashing and anti-sagging properties, ensuring uniform and smooth paint film
Efficient Cost Optimization - Reduces the dosage of associative thickeners, saving 5-10% dosage compared with traditional HBR products
Interior & Exterior Emulsion Paints - Used in interior flat paints and exterior elastic emulsion paints to optimize application and film-forming properties
Aqueous Industrial Coatings - Used in aqueous wood paints and metal protective paints to regulate rheology and leveling
Aqueous Waterproof Coatings - Used in aqueous polyurethane waterproof coatings to enhance anti-sagging and storage stability
Low PVC Coating Systems - Used with AQUAFLOW XLS-525 to improve comprehensive coating performance
| Chemical Type | Hydrophobically Modified Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HM HEC), non-ionic polymer |
| Physical Form | White powder |
| Core Characteristics | All-in-one rheology control, broad environmental compatibility |
| Viscosity (1% aqueous solution) | 2500 - 5000 mPa·s |
| Moisture Content | < 5 % |
| Ash Content (as Na₂SO₄) | < 10 % |
| Aqueous Solution Specific Gravity | 1.38 g/ml |
| pH Value (1% aqueous solution) | 5.5 - 8.5 |
| Solubility | Easily soluble in water to form transparent viscous solution; Insoluble in most organic solvents |
Q1: What is the primary functional role of NATROSOL HE 3KB in water-based formulations?
A: NATROSOL HE 3KB functions primarily as a non-ionic rheology modifier and thickener. It provides excellent viscosity development, shear-thinning behavior, and suspension stability in aqueous systems, making it especially valuable in paints, coatings, adhesives, and construction mortars.
Q2: How does NATROSOL HE 3KB differ from other NATROSOL HE grades, such as HE 100 or HE 250?
A: NATROSOL HE 3KB is specifically designed for balanced performance in mid-to-high-shear applications, offering enhanced water retention and improved sag resistance compared to lower-viscosity grades. Its molecular weight and substitution profile are optimized for robust thickening efficiency and compatibility with common co-additives like biocides and defoamers.
Q3: Is NATROSOL HE 3KB suitable for use in architectural coatings exposed to freeze-thaw cycles?
A: Yes — when properly incorporated and formulated, NATROSOL HE 3KB contributes to improved freeze-thaw stability in latex-based architectural coatings. Its non-ionic nature minimizes sensitivity to electrolytes and pH shifts, supporting consistent viscosity recovery after cycling.
Q4: What is the typical dosage range for achieving target viscosity in waterborne paint systems?
A: Dosage is formulation-dependent, but NATROSOL HE 3KB is typically used at low concentrations — generally ranging from 0.1% to 2% by weight of the total formulation — to achieve desired rheological profiles without compromising film formation or clarity.
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