Ashland introduces low-VOC surfactant

SHANGHAI, China -- With increasing regulations worldwide limiting use of volatile organic compounds (VOC), coating manufacturers face increased investment in reforming existing systems and designing new systems. 

At the upcoming ChinaCoat 2014 exhibition (December 3-5) in Guangzhou, Ashland Specialty Ingredients, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc. (NYSH: ASH) is introducing Strodex FT-68, a low-VOC surfactant for waterborne architectural coatings.

Strodex FT-68, the next generation of award-winning Strodex FT-428, does not include alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEO) and can significantly reduce VOCs. With this special surfactant, paint producers can lower or eliminate the glycol content in their formulations, thus making the paint more environmentally friendly. This surfactant is specially designed to impart superior stability to latex paints, including freeze-thaw as well as mechanical stability.

Jeff Gu, application manager, coatings specialties, Ashland Specialty Ingredients, Greater China, said the surfactant is an ideal product for the coating manufacturers. “Strodex FT-68 outperforms the surfactants tested on improving the freeze/thaw stability of the paints, and can help lower the VOC level by replacing part of anti-freezing agent. It’s truly the green solution for freeze/thaw stability of paints.”

Ashland Specialty Ingredients is committed to delivering sustainable and eco-friendly products that can meet or exceed our customers’ expectations, said William Zhao, general manager, Greater China. “In this regard, we are helping our customers achieve sustainable business success,” he said.