BYK 153

BYK-153 is a wetting and dispersing additive designed for stabilizing pigments in aqueous emulsion paints, specifically available in the North American market. It consists of a solution of a sodium salt of an acrylic acid copolymer dissolved in water. Key typical properties include a density of 10.35 lbs/US gal at 68°F and a non-volatile matter content of 44% at 302°F.

This additive operates by stabilizing pigments and fillers through electrostatic repulsion, thereby increasing gloss, improving leveling, shortening dispersing time, and stabilizing pigment dispersion. It can be used as the sole dispersing additive in many cases and is suitable for inorganic pigments and fillers.

Recommended levels of addition, based on pigment type, range from 1.5% to 8% for inorganic pigments, 1% to 2% for titanium dioxides, and 0.4% to 0.8% for fillers. These levels serve as a guideline, with optimal levels determined through laboratory tests.

For best performance, BYK-153 should be incorporated into the mill base before the addition of pigments and fillers.

As with other products in the line, BYK-153 is manufactured and distributed by BYK USA Inc., with their contact information provided for further inquiries.