Matting Agent Principle

A clear varnish film without a matting agent is in a specular-smooth state. When light reaches this mirror-like surface, part of the incident light is absorbed, and part is reflected. This reflected portion gives the film its high gloss.

A paint film containing a silica (white carbon black) matting agent has these particles uniformly distributed throughout, creating a micro-rough surface. This uniform distribution of matting agent particles within the film is clearly visible in scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of film sections.

When incident light hits this uneven surface, diffuse reflection (scattering) occurs. This scattering results in a low-gloss, matte, or flat appearance. Optimum matting performance is achieved by using silica matting agents with high porosity, an optimal particle size distribution, and appropriate surface treatment.

Function of Matting Agents

Matting agents serve to reduce the gloss of paint films, providing a matting (flatting) effect. They are widely used in paints and coatings. As a type of protective finish, incorporating a matting agent into a paint formulation reduces the gloss of high-gloss surfaces, progressively lowering the surface sheen to achieve the desired dull finish. Additionally, they can enhance scratch and abrasion resistance, provide some deodorizing and moisture-absorbing effects, offer water resistance and thermal insulation, and increase paint transparency.

The primary purpose of a matting agent is to alter the surface roughness, thereby reducing surface gloss. Common matting agents include ultra-fine silica (precipitated silica), talc, aluminum stearate, calcium stearate, and low molecular weight thermoplastic resins.

What types of matting agents  does Ecopower have?

Application

Wood paint, industry paint,ink