Difference Between Thixotropic Agent and Thickener

Provide excellent storage stability

Ease of application during stirring or scraping | - Increase overall viscosity

Control flow and sag resistance Improve application performance | | Typical Applications | - Paints and coatings (especially where anti-sagging properties are critical)

Improve application performance | | Typical Applications | - Paints and coatings (especially where anti-sagging properties are critical)

Sealants Adhesives Inks | - Coatings, inks, sealants requiring higher viscosity

Control flow and prevent sedimentation

Control flow and prevent sedimentation | | Common Components | - Bentonite

Hydrogenated castor oil

Polyurea | - Cellulose thickeners

Acrylic thickeners

Polyurethane thickeners | | Rheological Behavior | Exhibits shear-thinning behavior. | May exhibit shear-thinning, shear-thickening, or Newtonian behavior, depending on the type. |

| Advantages | - Prevents pigment and filler sedimentation

Enhances anti-sagging properties

Good storage stability | - Increases overall system viscosity

Controls flow

Stable application performance | | Disadvantages | May affect gloss and transparency in some systems. | Excessive use may lead to poor leveling or difficult application. |

Summary:

Thixotropic Agents emphasize viscosity changes under external forces, ensuring stability when at rest and easy application during movement. They are primarily used for anti-settling and anti-sagging purposes.

Thickeners focus on increasing overall viscosity, controlling the flow and structure of the system. In practical formulations, both can be used together to achieve the ideal rheological performance and application effect.