About Solvent-borne Organoclay
Solvent-borne organoclay is an organophilic bentonite rheological additive for paints, coatings and printing inks based on low and medium polarity solvents, such as mineral spirits, xylene and toluene. It controls pigment settling, sag and levelling in alkyd, epoxy, chlorinated rubber, vinyl and similar binder systems.
Each clay platelet carries a quaternary ammonium coating that lets it swell in the solvent. During the grind, shear and a polar activator push the platelets apart, after which they link edge to face through hydrogen bonds, forming a reversible gel. The structure keeps pigments suspended in the can and gives sag control on application, then breaks down under the shear of brushing or spraying so the paint flows and levels. Because the gel rebuilds rapidly, film thickness is held on vertical surfaces as solvent evaporates. Conventional powders are activated with propylene carbonate or an alcohol and water blend; our self-activating option disperses with shear alone in suitable systems.
Obsidian Minerals produces this grade in Gujarat and tests every batch in our NABL-accredited laboratory, reporting moisture, fineness and agreed gel parameters on the Certificate of Analysis. A Technical Data Sheet and MSDS/SDS accompany each shipment. We can tailor the grade to specific solvent blends and activation methods with customers, and supply samples on request.
Typical specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture (105 °C) | ≤ 3.5 % | Internal method |
| Loss on ignition (1000 °C) | 35–45 % | Internal method |
| Fineness, passing 75 µm | ≥ 95 % | Dry sieve, internal method |
| Specific gravity | Approx. 1.7 | Internal method |
| Loose bulk density | 0.30–0.50 g/cm³ | Internal method |
| Recommended loading | 0.5–1.5 % on total formulation | — |
| Appearance | Cream to off-white fine powder | Visual |
Typical values for guidance. Guaranteed limits are stated on the Technical Data Sheet and batch CoA. Gel performance depends on solvent, activator and dispersion energy, and should be confirmed in the customer's system.
Key features & benefits
Efficient solvent gelling
The solvent-borne organoclay swells and builds a thixotropic network in aliphatic and aromatic solvents at low loading, adding structure without significantly raising application viscosity or affecting drying.
Anti-settling for dense pigments
A stable gel network keeps titanium dioxide, iron oxides and extenders in soft suspension through storage, so paints and inks can be remixed quickly and consistently before use.
Sag and levelling balance
Rapid recovery after shear holds wet film on vertical surfaces, while the brief drop in viscosity during application lets brush and roller marks level before the film sets.
Self-activating option
Alongside the conventional powder, a self-activating version disperses with shear alone in suitable systems, removing the need to handle and dose a separate polar activator in the paint plant.
Consistent batch quality
Moisture, fineness and agreed gel parameters are reported on each batch CoA from our NABL-accredited laboratory, helping QC teams keep viscosity targets steady across production runs.
Applications
Industrial and protective coatings
Controls settling and sag in alkyd, epoxy and chlorinated rubber coatings for steel structures, machinery and equipment, supporting even film build by brush, roller or spray.
Decorative solvent-borne paints
Gives body, brushability and anti-settling to solvent-borne enamels, wood stains and varnish-based products sold for trade and retail use, improving in-can appearance and application feel.
Printing inks
Adjusts tack, misting and pigment suspension in solvent-based and oil-based inks, helping inks hold their rheology on the press and during storage in drums and cartridges.
Solvent-based adhesives and sealants
Provides non-slump body and filler suspension in solvent-based adhesives, mastics and sealants, so products extrude cleanly and hold their shape once applied to the joint.
Usage & handling
- Start at 0.5–1.5 % by weight on the total paint or ink, then refine the level with a three-point ladder study.
- Add the organoclay to the solvent and resin at the start of the grind, disperse under high shear, then add the polar activator at about 30–50 % of the organoclay weight unless using the self-activating version.
- Allow full dispersion before adding the bulk of the pigments, as late addition reduces efficiency.
- Store bags sealed in a dry area; organoclay can pick up moisture that affects gel development.
Packaging & supply
- 25 kg or 50 kg HDPE or paper bags
- 1 MT or 1.2 MT FIBC jumbo bags for large paint and ink plants
- Private-label packaging for distributors on request
Frequently asked questions
Which polar activator should be used with solvent-borne organoclay?
Propylene carbonate is widely used because it is efficient and has low odour. Methanol or ethanol blended with about 5 % water are common alternatives. A typical starting level is 30 to 50 % of the organoclay weight. The right choice depends on your solvent, regulatory constraints and plant handling preferences, so test two options during development.
Can solvent-borne organoclay be post-added to a finished paint?
Dry powder post-added at let-down usually gives poor gel development because there is not enough shear or activator present. For corrections, prepare a pregel by dispersing organoclay and activator in solvent at high shear, then stir the pregel into the batch. Pregels of around 8 to 10 % organoclay are commonly used.
Is this organoclay suitable for high-polarity solvents?
This grade is designed for low and medium polarity solvents such as aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons. In highly polar systems, such as ketones, esters or alcohol-rich blends, a different organoclay chemistry or an attapulgite rheology modifier may perform better. Share your solvent blend and we will advise on a suitable option.
What is the difference between the self-activating and standard solvent-borne organoclay?
The standard powder needs a polar activator to separate the platelets and reach full gel strength. The self-activating version is formulated to disperse and develop its gel under shear alone in suitable systems. It simplifies dosing and avoids handling an extra raw material, although performance should be compared in your formulation before switching.