For manufacturers of water-based paints and coatings, formulation stability, consistency and application performance are key considerations.
Chemtrade South Africa supplies Rheoplus speciality clays from Sepiolsa, supporting customers who require rheology modification and suspension performance in water-based systems and other industrial applications.
Speciality clays for formulation stability
Manufacturers use Sepiolite and Attapulgite clays in water-based paints and coatings to help improve rheology. In addition, these clays can also act as suspending agents.
For paint and coatings manufacturers, this can support formulation stability, product consistency and reliable performance in the final application.
First-hand insight from Sepiolsa in Spain
Close relationships with international principals support Chemtrade’s product knowledge.
During a recent supplier visit to Spain, Chemtrade Managing Director Debra Barker and Business Manager Dr Lynne Herridge visited Sepiolsa’s mine in Illescas, south of Madrid, as well as its head office and production facilities in Guadalajara, including the laboratories, quality control and R&D operations.
The visit provided first-hand insight into the source, production and technical expertise behind Sepiolsa’s speciality clay products.
Seeing the source of the clay
One of the key takeaways from the visit was seeing Sepiolsa’s own reserve clays at source. This reinforced Sepiolsa’s position as a leader in extracting and producing speciality clays for a range of industrial applications.
The visit also highlighted Sepiolsa’s approach to responsible land use. Post-mining sites are rehabilitated into agricultural land, with olive trees planted as part of the rehabilitation process.
Applications beyond paints and coatings
Rheoplus speciality clays can be used in a range of applications, including:
- paints and coatings
- gypsum-based products
- construction products
- bitumen-based products
Through its relationship with Sepiolsa, Chemtrade supports South African manufacturers with access to speciality clay solutions backed by international expertise and local product support.
Contact Chemtrade for Rheoplus speciality clays
For more information about Rheoplus, Sepiolite and Attapulgite clays, or their suitability for your formulation needs, please contact the Chemtrade team.