The Best Paint Stripper Thickeners

Paint Remover and Paint Stripper Formulations

Formulations for paint strippers rely on a single solvent or blend of solvents to dissolve old coating, varnish, and paint layers, making them easy to scrape or peel off during removal. Viscosity is a vital characteristic that determines the performance quality of any coating stripper. When optimized for viscosity, paint stripper formulations make the product easier to apply and minimize waste, providing effective coverage to use only what is needed. By adding the right thickener to a paint stripper or remover formulation, a product of significantly higher quality can be made.

Introducing METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ Thickeners

METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ are cellulose-based products naturally derived from renewable wood pulp. These two product lines are named based on their polymer chemistry. METHOCEL™ is composed of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and ETHOCEL™ is composed of ethylcellulose. 

Both chemistries start with alkali cellulose and are made by treatment to the cellulose backbone. METHOCEL™ is produced by treatment to substitute hydroxyl propyl and methyl groups, and ETHOCEL™ is made by treatment to substitute ethyl groups. See the diagram below.

In general, METHOCEL™ polymers are recommended for aqueous formulations containing a blend of organic solvents and water, and ETHOCEL™ is recommended for solutions containing only organic solvents.

For several decades, these thickeners have been relied upon to provide effective rheology modification and thickening for an assortment of applications, including ceramics, adhesives, paints, and coatings. These polymers are also commonly used in paint removers due to the following specific attributes to optimize performance.
•    Excellent solubility in aqueous-based and organic-solvent-based solutions
•    Shear-thinning rheology modification
•    Chemical safety and inertness
 

Exceptional Solubility in Varied Solvents

The solvent used in coating, varnish, and paint stripper solutions greatly affects the formulation's effectiveness. Similarly, selecting the right additives and thickeners is critical to achieving a product that is easy to apply, smooth, and clear. METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ are used with a variety of solvents and solvent blends because they provide excellent solubility. In general, METHOCEL™ is optimal for water and water–organic solvent blends, and ETHOCEL™ is best for organic solvent formulations.

The chart below details the compatibility and appearance of METHOCEL™ 311 and ETHOCEL™ Standard 300 in various solvent blends and solvents. When METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ are added to these solvents, they reduce the evaporation rate, leading to extended efficacy and higher contact times with the surface.

Appearance and Compatibility

Shear-Thinning Rheology Modification

When added to solvent-based or solvent-and-water-based formulations, METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ increase viscosity and impart shear-thinning rheology. As mentioned above, viscosity is an essential attribute for paint stripper performance to minimize waste and improve the ease of application.

When a paint stripper or remover is applied to an overhead or vertical surface, such as home ceilings, formulas with insufficient viscosity will lead to dripping and sagging on application. Adding METHOCEL™ or ETHOCEL™ provides two key benefits: First, brushing and spraying become easier because the formula is under high shear. Second, once applied to the surface and shear is removed, viscosity rebuilds, keeping the formula in place.

Safety and Chemical Inertness

A growing focus for paint remover and paint stripper formulations is consumer safety and limiting hazardous ingredients. METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ are naturally derived, nontoxic, and safe to use and pose minimal risk to formulators and consumers. For additional product details or safety data sheets, contact us.

Example Formulations and Recommended Grades

Below are example formulations and grade recommendations utilizing METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ for paint and coating stripper formulations.

Example Formulation 1, with METHOCEL™ 311

Example Formulation 2, with ETHOCEL™ Standard 300

Example Formulation 3, with ETHOCEL™ Standard 300

Grade Recommendations

Summary

METHOCEL™ and ETHOCEL™ are ideal rheology modifiers and thickeners for paint stripper formulations. These polymers are naturally derived, safe, and soluble in many organic aqueous solvent blends and organic solvents. They provide shear-thinning rheology modification and make paint removers easier to formulate, last longer, and adhere more efficiently. Click the link below to discuss your application and request a sample today.