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

Dow Acrysol DR180 Hydrophobic Alkali-Swellable Thickener

Dow Acrysol DR180 is a hydrophobic alkali-swellable thickener (HASE) from Dow’s Acrysol polymer series—designed to deliver high shear viscosity, excellent sag resistance, and robust rheology control in waterborne architectural coatings and industrial formulations without compromising clarity or stability.
  • dow acrysol dr180 hydrophobic alkali swellable thickener_6679814b
  • dow acrysol dr180 hydrophobic alkali swellable thickener_6679814b

Features Of Dow Acrysol DR180 Hydrophobic Alkali-Swellable Thickener

  1. Delivers high-shear viscosity stability in waterborne coatings and inks.

  2. Provides excellent sag resistance and leveling balance in architectural and industrial paints.

  3. Offers robust rheology control under alkaline conditions without requiring high pH adjustment.

  4. Enhances spatter resistance and brush drag performance in latex-based formulations.

  5. Compatible with anionic surfactants and common co-thickeners such as HEC and associative HEUR thickeners.

Typical Applications Of Dow Acrysol DR180 Hydrophobic Alkali-Swellable Thickener

  1. Interior and exterior architectural flat and low-sheen latex paints.

  2. Industrial maintenance coatings for metal and concrete substrates.

  3. Waterborne wood stains and clear finishes.

  4. Low-VOC and zero-VOC decorative coatings.

  5. Exterior masonry and stucco coatings.

Specifications Of Dow Acrysol DR180 Hydrophobic Alkali-Swellable Thickener

Chemical TypeHydrophobic alkali-swellable emulsion (HASE)
Product FormAqueous dispersion
AppearanceOff-white to light yellow, opaque liquid
pH (as received)3.0–4.5
Active Content (wt%)30.0–32.0%
Viscosity (Brookfield, spindle #3, 20 rpm, 25°C)500–2,000 cP
Primary ApplicationsRheology modifier for waterborne architectural and industrial coatings
Key FeaturesHydrophobic modification, alkali-activated thickening, shear-thinning behavior


Dow Acrysol DR180 Hydrophobic Alkali-Swellable Thickener – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How does DR180 differ from conventional alkali-swellable thickeners?

A: DR180 is a hydrophobic alkali-swellable emulsion polymer that provides enhanced resistance to water sensitivity and improved rheological performance in high-electrolyte or low-pH systems compared to non-hydrophobically modified ASAs. Its hydrophobic character contributes to better film integrity and reduced water leaching in dried films.


Q2: What types of formulations is DR180 typically used in?

A: DR180 is commonly employed in architectural coatings (e.g., interior and exterior paints), industrial maintenance coatings, and some specialty waterborne adhesives where robust viscosity build, good sag resistance, and tolerance to co-solvents or surfactants are required.


Q3: How should DR180 be incorporated into a formulation?

A: DR180 is generally added during the let-down stage, after neutralization of other acid-functional components. It should be diluted with water or a compatible solvent prior to addition and mixed under moderate shear to ensure uniform dispersion. Avoid direct addition to highly acidic or unneutralized systems to prevent premature swelling or instability.


Q4: Does DR180 require neutralization before thickening takes effect?

A: Yes — like all alkali-swellable thickeners, DR180 requires pH adjustment to approximately 8.0–9.5 (typically using ammonia, AMP-95™, or sodium hydroxide) to ionize carboxylic groups and enable full viscosity development. Thinning may occur if pH drops significantly during storage or application.



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