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Driers
Catalysts for Oxidative Curing in Paints and Coatings
Driers—also known as siccatives—are a group of metal-based compounds used in paints, varnishes, inks, and other coatings to accelerate the drying (curing) process. They function by catalyzing the oxidative cross-linking of unsaturated oils or resins, converting the liquid film into a solid, durable surface.
Typically supplied as metal carboxylates (commonly in the form of metal naphthenates or octoates), driers are essential additives in both solvent-based and some alkyd-based waterborne systems.
How Driers WorkWhen a coating is applied, it begins to absorb oxygen from the air. Driers speed up this oxygen absorption and the resulting polymerization reaction, helping the film form faster and more uniformly.
There are three main types of driers based on their roles:
Primary (Surface Driers):
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Example: Cobalt driers
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Promote surface curing and skin formation
Secondary (Through Driers):
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Example: Manganese, Vanadium, or Zirconium driers
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Assist in through-drying of thicker films (internal curing)
Auxiliary (Drying Control & Synergistic Agents):
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Example: Calcium, Zinc, or Lithium driers
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Enhance solubility, prevent surface wrinkling, and balance drying
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Cobalt – Most effective for initiating surface drying; deep blue in concentrated form
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Manganese – Promotes both surface and through drying; more environmentally friendly alternative to cobalt
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Zirconium – Works as a strong auxiliary, replacing lead-based driers
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Calcium – Helps pigment dispersion and improves hardness
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Lithium – Used in heat-resistant coatings and quick-drying finishes
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Decorative & Industrial Paints
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Wood Coatings
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Marine and Protective Coatings
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Printing Inks
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Auto Refinishing Primers and Enamels
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Wire Enamels
Cobalt Octoate 6%
Product Brochure
Grade Standard | Technical Grade |
Appearance | Clear Violet Liquid |
Non Volatile Matter @ 120 Degree Celsius/1hr | 30% w/w |
MTO Tolerance | 1:19 |
Specific Gravity @ 30 Degree Celsius | 0.88 g/cm^3 |
Viscosity (Ford cup Viscometer) | 12 sec |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
Primary Drier for Fast Surface Curing in Paints and Coatings
Cobalt Octoate 6% is a highly effective metal-based drier used in alkyd and oil-based paint systems to accelerate surface drying. It functions as a catalyst for oxidative polymerization, converting liquid coatings into solid films upon exposure to air. Formulated by complexing cobalt with organic acids, this product is widely recognized for its strong reactivity and reliable performance in a broad range of coating applications.
As a primary drier, Cobalt Octoate plays a critical role in initiating the curing process, allowing paint films to become tack-free quickly and enabling faster handling and re-coating. It is particularly valued for enhancing early hardness, gloss development, and film smoothness.
Key Features & Benefits-
Promotes rapid surface drying in air-drying coating systems
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Improves initial film hardness and helps prevent dust contamination
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Enhances gloss, clarity, and overall surface appearance
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Allows faster re-coating and increases productivity in manufacturing
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Compatible with a variety of binder systems including long, medium, and short oil alkyds
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Can be blended with auxiliary driers like calcium or zinc for balanced through-drying
Cobalt Octoate 6% is ideal for use in:
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Decorative and protective paints
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Wood coatings and furniture finishes
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Industrial and marine maintenance coatings
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Oil-based primers and topcoats
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Printing inks and specialty surface coatings
While Cobalt Octoate is highly efficient even in small quantities, it is typically used in combination with secondary or auxiliary driers to promote full film curing and prevent surface defects such as wrinkling. It should be handled with care to avoid over-application, which may lead to uneven drying or yellowing in pale-colored coatings.
Storage & HandlingCobalt driers should be stored in tightly sealed containers, away from air, light, and heat to prevent premature oxidation. Proper storage conditions will help maintain product stability and ensure consistent performance throughout its shelf life.
Environmental ResponsibilityModern formulations of Cobalt Octoate are designed to meet global safety and environmental standards. Many variants are available in low-VOC solvent carriers and are free from lead or other restricted heavy metals, aligning with current regulatory and sustainability goals.
ConclusionCobalt Octoate 6% remains a cornerstone ingredient in oxidative drying systems. Its fast action, reliable performance, and compatibility with a wide range of resins make it an indispensable tool for formulators seeking high-quality, fast-drying coatings with professional-grade finish and durability.
Lead Octoate 24%
Product Brochure
Formula | C16H30O4Pb |
Molecular Weight | 493.61 g/mol |
Density | 1.56 g/ml |
CAS No. | 7319-86-0 |
Specific Gravity @ 30 Degree Celsius | 1.09 g/cm^3 |
Non Volatile Matter @ 120 Degree Celsius/hr | 57% w/w |
Grade | Industrial Grade |
Application | Industrial |
Color (Gardner Unit) | 8.0 max |
MTO Tolerance | 1:19 |
Appearance | Clear to Slightly Pale Liquid |
Viscosity (Ford cup Viscometer) | 22 sec |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
High-Efficiency Through-Drier for Industrial Paints & Coatings
Lead Octoate 24% is a powerful metal-based drier used in alkyd and oil-based coating systems to promote through-drying of the film. It contains 24% lead metal, complexed with 2-ethylhexanoic acid (commonly known as octoic acid), and is supplied as a clear to slightly amber liquid in a hydrocarbon solvent.
As a secondary drier, Lead Octoate plays a critical role in curing the entire thickness of the coating film, especially in applications involving thick layers, high pigment loads, or challenging drying conditions. It is often used in combination with cobalt and calcium octoates to balance surface and through drying in both decorative and industrial formulations.
✅ Key Features:-
Promotes deep-through drying of alkyd and oil-based coatings
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Enhances film hardness, durability, and chemical resistance
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Ideal for slow-curing and high-build systems
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Compatible with a wide range of resins and binders
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Helps prevent tackiness and soft spots in thick or multilayer coatings
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Ensures uniform drying from surface to substrate
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Protective industrial coatings
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Heavy-duty primers and undercoats
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Automotive and machinery paints
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Marine coatings and structural steel paints
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Oil-based printing inks and varnishes
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Used in small dosages (as per formulation needs)
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Typically combined with Cobalt Octoate (surface drier) and Calcium/Zirconium Octoate (auxiliaries) for balanced drying
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Should be added during the final stages of formulation to avoid premature gelation
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Contains lead, a regulated heavy metal—must be handled with proper PPE
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Not recommended for coatings used on children's furniture, food contact surfaces, or toys
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Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from sunlight and ignition sources
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Ensure containers are tightly sealed after use to maintain product integrity
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Consistent Lead Content for predictable performance
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Formulation-Ready Quality – minimal impurities and excellent compatibility
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Backed by technical support for industrial and OEM applications
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Competitive pricing and bulk availability across India
For pricing, samples, or technical assistance, click “Send Inquiry” or contact us today. We ensure timely delivery, quality assurance, and expert support to meet your industrial coating needs.
Manganese Octoate 6%
Product Brochure
Form | Liquid |
Density | 0.897 g/ml |
Compound Formula | C16H30MnO4 |
Non Volatile Matter @ 120 DegreeC/hr | 38% w/w |
Storage | Room Temperature |
MTO Tolerance | 1:19 |
CAS Number | 13434-24-7 |
Specific Gravity | 0.92 g/cm^3 at 30 Degree Celsius |
Viscosity (Ford cup Viscometer) | 18 sec |
Application | Industrial |
Molecular Weight | 341.35 g/mol |
Grade | Industrial Grade |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
Secondary Drier for Alkyd-Based Paints and Industrial Coatings
Manganese Octoate 6% is a high-efficiency metal-based drier designed to promote both surface and through drying in alkyd and oil-modified resin systems. It is manufactured by complexing manganese metal (6% content) with 2-ethylhexanoic acid, commonly known as octoic acid, resulting in a stable, oil-soluble formulation used extensively in the paints and coatings industry.
Manganese functions as an oxidation catalyst, facilitating the cross-linking of unsaturated fatty acids in drying oils or alkyd resins upon exposure to atmospheric oxygen. This product is often utilized in combination with primary driers such as Cobalt Octoate and auxiliary driers like Calcium or Zinc Octoates to achieve optimal film curing.
Key Attributes:-
Promotes balanced drying across both surface and internal layers of the coating film
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Serves as a partial or full replacement for cobalt driers in formulations requiring environmentally considerate alternatives
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Helps to minimize surface wrinkling and improves overall film integrity
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Compatible with long, medium, and short oil alkyd resins and various solvent systems
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Offers reliable performance in both clear and pigmented systems
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Alkyd-based decorative paints and synthetic enamels
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Wood finishes, industrial primers, and metal coatings
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Oil-based printing inks and varnishes
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General-purpose protective and maintenance coatings
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OEM coatings requiring controlled drying profiles
Manganese Octoate 6% is typically used in conjunction with other driers to balance the overall drying behavior of a formulation. Its inclusion is especially recommended in systems that require uniform curing in medium to high film thickness applications. Careful attention should be given to dosage, as excessive amounts may cause discoloration in pale or white coatings.
Storage and Handling:This product should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment, away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. Containers must be tightly sealed to prevent moisture ingress or oxidation, which may affect performance. Standard industrial safety procedures, including the use of protective gloves and eyewear, are recommended during handling.
Conclusion:Manganese Octoate 6% is a proven and reliable drier that contributes significantly to the performance and consistency of alkyd-based coatings. Its dual action as both a surface and through drier makes it a valuable component in a wide variety of industrial formulations, offering a balance of drying speed, durability, and film integrity. Its use supports efficient production, high-quality finishes, and dependable curing in both standard and specialized coating systems.
Manganese Octoate 8%
Product Brochure
Form | Liquid |
Compound Formula | C16H30MnO4 |
Specific Gravity | 0.98 g/cm^3 @ 30 Degree Celsius |
CAS Number | 15956-58-8 |
Appearance | Clear Liquid |
Viscosity (Ford cup Viscometer) | 22 sec |
Non Volatile Matter @ 120 Degree Celsius/hr | 50% w/w |
MTO Tolerance | 1:19 |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
Secondary Drier for Alkyd-Based Paints and Coatings
Manganese Octoate 8% is a high-performance metal octoate drier widely used in the manufacture of alkyd paints, industrial coatings, and wood finishes. It is produced by reacting manganese metal with 2-ethylhexanoic acid, resulting in a clear to amber liquid that is fully soluble in standard coating solvents and compatible with a broad spectrum of alkyd resins.
This product acts as a through drying agent in air-drying and oxidative curing systems. It facilitates the uniform hardening of coatings by promoting oxygen absorption and accelerating cross-linking reactions within the paint film. This makes Manganese Octoate especially valuable in formulations that require deeper curing, such as high-build primers, protective metal coatings, and general-purpose alkyd enamels.
Manganese Octoate 8% is typically used in combination with Cobalt Octoate, which accelerates surface drying, and with auxiliary driers like Calcium Octoate or Zinc Octoate to maintain drying balance and improve film quality.
Key Features:-
Promotes efficient through drying of solvent-based alkyd coatings
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Enhances internal film hardness and uniform curing
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Provides a practical alternative to cobalt-based driers in specific formulations
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Performs well in both clear and pigmented systems
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Compatible with long, medium, and short oil alkyd resins
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Helps achieve a tack-free, smooth film surface
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Reduces surface wrinkling and patchy drying in high-build or multi-coat applications
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Alkyd-based industrial paints and primers
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Wood coatings and synthetic enamels
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Protective coatings for metal surfaces and machinery
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Oil-based varnishes and printing ink formulations
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Decorative solvent-based paints used on wood, metal, and walls
Manganese Octoate 8% is generally used at low concentrations as part of a multi-metal drier system. It should be added during the final stages of production to ensure homogenous distribution and optimal performance. The appropriate dosage depends on several factors including resin type, pigment concentration, film thickness, and ambient drying conditions. Excessive use may result in discoloration, particularly in white or light-colored coatings.
Storage and Handling:This product should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and ignition sources. The container must be kept tightly sealed when not in use to prevent air exposure, which may lead to premature oxidation. It is advisable to follow standard industrial safety procedures, including the use of gloves and eye protection while handling.
Conclusion:Manganese Octoate 8% is a reliable and versatile metal-based paint drier that enhances both surface and internal curing in alkyd and oil-based coatings. Its consistent performance, excellent compatibility with other driers, and ability to improve film integrity make it a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking efficient drying agents in industrial, decorative, and protective paint systems.
This drier is particularly recommended for use in applications requiring balanced drying, improved film hardness, and long-lasting durability in demanding environments.
Zirconium Octoate 18%
Product Brochure
Grade Standard | Industrial |
Usage | Drier |
Appearance | Clear to Slight Yellow Liquid |
Non Volatile Matter @ 120 Degree Celsius/hr | 65% w/w |
CAS Number | 22464-99-9 |
Physical Form | Liquid |
Specific Gravity | 1.03 g/cm^3 @ 30 Degree Celsius |
Color (Gardner Unit) | 5.0 max |
Viscosity (Ford cup Viscometer) | 16 sec |
MTO Tolerance | 1:19 |
IUPAC Name | Zirconium(2+) bis(2-ethylhexanoate) |
Chemical Formula | C32H64O8Zr |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
Auxiliary Drier and Anti-Wrinkling Agent for Alkyd-Based Paints and Coatings
Zirconium Octoate 18% is a high-purity metal octoate drier used primarily as an auxiliary drier in alkyd-based paints, varnishes, and protective coatings. It contains 18% zirconium metal, complexed with 2-ethylhexanoic acid (octoic acid), forming a stable, oil-soluble compound compatible with most solvent-borne resin systems.
Zirconium Octoate is widely recognized for its role in enhancing through-drying, improving film hardness, and preventing surface wrinkling. Although it does not function as a primary drier, it is an essential component when used in combination with Cobalt Octoate (for surface drying) and Calcium or Manganese Octoates (for drying support). It is especially effective in medium and long oil alkyd resins, where controlled drying is critical to achieving a smooth, defect-free finish.
Key Features:-
Acts as a powerful anti-wrinkling agent in alkyd coatings
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Enhances through-drying and film integrity
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Improves surface smoothness and gloss uniformity
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Reduces discoloration and prevents surface haze in light or white coatings
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Compatible with clear, pigmented, and high-solids systems
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Provides effective synergy when combined with cobalt-based and manganese-based driers
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Alkyd-based decorative paints and topcoats
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Industrial and protective coatings
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Synthetic enamels and wood varnishes
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Primers and maintenance coatings for metal and machinery
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White or pastel shades where wrinkle control and clarity are essential
Zirconium Octoate 18% is typically used in small quantities as part of a multi-metal drier system. It does not initiate drying on its own but enhances the drying profile when combined with primary driers. Recommended dosage depends on the binder type, pigment volume, film thickness, and environmental conditions. Proper formulation ensures optimized drying time, reduced film defects, and improved performance.
Overdosage should be avoided as it may delay surface drying or impact coating clarity. Laboratory trials are advised to determine the ideal concentration for specific formulations.
Storage and Handling:Store the product in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and ignition sources. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent oxidation. As with all metal-based driers, standard precautions should be taken during handling, including the use of gloves and safety goggles.
Conclusion:Zirconium Octoate 18% is a reliable and effective auxiliary drier used to support and refine the drying performance of alkyd and oil-based coating systems. Its role in preventing surface wrinkling, promoting internal film curing, and enhancing the final appearance makes it a critical component in the formulation of premium-grade decorative and industrial coatings.
Ideal for manufacturers seeking smoother finishes, greater durability, and enhanced drying control, Zirconium Octoate is a trusted additive in a wide range of professional paint and varnish systems.
Zinc Octoate 6%
Product Brochure
Grade | Industrial or Technical Grade |
Usage/Application | Industrial |
Physical Form | Liquid |
Chemical Formula | Zn(C8H15O2)2 |
CAS Number | 86338-28-5 |
Molecular Weight | 351.8 g/mol |
Appearance | Clear Liquid |
Non Volatile Matter @120 Degree Celsius/hr | 25% w/w |
Color (Gardner Unit) | 5 max |
Specific Gravity | 0.84 g/cm^3 at 30 Degree Celsius |
MTO Tolerance | 1:19 |
Viscosity (Ford cup Viscometer) | 14 sec |
Boiling Point | 239.3 Degree Celsius |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
Auxiliary Drier for Alkyd Paints, Industrial Coatings, and Varnishes
Zinc Octoate 8% is a high-quality metal octoate drier widely used in the formulation of alkyd-based paints, varnishes, and protective coatings. It contains 8% zinc metal, reacted with 2-ethylhexanoic acid (commonly known as octoic acid), resulting in a clear, stable liquid compatible with most solvent-based systems.
Zinc Octoate functions as an auxiliary drier, supporting the action of primary and secondary driers such as Cobalt Octoate and Manganese Octoate. While it does not independently promote drying, its presence significantly improves the overall drying performance, film smoothness, and long-term stability of the coating. It is especially useful in reducing the risk of surface wrinkling, improving gloss retention, and minimizing discoloration in light-shade and white coatings.
This drier is essential in applications requiring balanced oxidative curing, particularly in decorative paints, wood finishes, and general-purpose enamel systems.
Key Features:-
Acts as a synergistic drier in combination with cobalt, manganese, or calcium octoates
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Helps prevent surface defects such as wrinkling or haze in the coating
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Enhances gloss, film clarity, and smoothness in alkyd-based systems
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Reduces the risk of yellowing, making it ideal for white or pastel-shade coatings
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Compatible with long, medium, and short oil alkyd resins
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Contributes to improved drying control and formulation flexibility
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Decorative solvent-based paints and primers
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Wood coatings and furniture enamels
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General-purpose industrial and maintenance coatings
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Alkyd-based varnishes and topcoats
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White and pastel-colored paints where discoloration must be minimized
Zinc Octoate 8% is typically used in small concentrations, in conjunction with primary driers (such as Cobalt Octoate for surface drying) and secondary driers (such as Manganese Octoate for through drying). The optimal dosage depends on the formulation type, pigment volume, and drying requirements.
Overuse should be avoided, as excess zinc can retard the drying process. Precise balance with other driers is necessary to ensure optimal film performance.
Storage and Handling:This product should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, away from direct sunlight and ignition sources. The container must be tightly sealed after use to prevent oxidation or contamination. Standard industrial safety procedures should be followed during handling, including the use of gloves and eye protection.
Conclusion:Zinc Octoate 8% is a reliable and effective auxiliary drier used to enhance the performance and appearance of alkyd-based coatings. Its ability to control drying rates, reduce defects, and improve gloss makes it a valuable component in formulations where finish quality and color stability are critical.
It is particularly suited for use in high-quality paints and coatings where a refined appearance and durable film are required, and where compatibility with a range of resins and solvents is essential.