CP-180B is an improved-grade organophilic clay with finer particle distribution and enhanced dispersion characteristics compared to standard organoclay grades. It produces a colorless, high-clarity thixotropic gel across a wide range of intermediate and low polarity organic solvents — making it the preferred grade for clear coatings, transparent industrial lacquers, and applications where visual clarity of the gel is critical. CP-180B is also specified as a fumed silica replacement in solvent-based systems where higher thixotropic index and better anti-settling performance are required at comparable or lower dosage.
Technical Properties
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|
| Chemical composition | Organic derivative of montmorillonite clay | — |
| Appearance | Fine powder, light yellow | Visual |
| Moisture content | ≤ 3.5% | 105°C, 2 hours |
| Loss on ignition (LOI) | 29–32% | 1000°C |
| Bulk density | 0.53 g/cm³ | — |
| Fineness | ≥ 98% passing 74 μm (200 mesh) | Sieve analysis |
Performance Characteristics
- Colorless, high-clarity gel — dispersed CP-180B produces minimal haze in transparent coating films; suitable for clear lacquers and varnishes
- Finer particle size and easier dispersing — improved dispersion quality over standard grades; achieves full exfoliation at lower mixing energy
- Wide intermediate-polarity range — effective across aromatic, aliphatic, and mixed solvent systems with appropriate polar activator
- Reproducible thixotropy across temperature range — consistent gel profile from −10°C to 150°C; no seasonal formulation adjustment
- Anti-settling and sag resistance — platelet gel network suspends pigments and prevents film flow on vertical surfaces without impairing leveling
- Film reinforcement — organoclay platelets align in the dried film, improving barrier properties
- Fumed silica replacement — higher thixotropic index at equivalent dosage; better anti-settling; lower nuisance dust
Applications and Dosage
| Application | Typical Dosage | Key Function |
|---|
| Transparent coatings / clear lacquers | 0.2–0.8 wt% | Anti-settling, clarity without haze |
| Industrial solvent-based paint | 0.3–1.2 wt% | Anti-settling, anti-sagging, thixotropy |
| Lubricating grease | 8–15 wt% | Thickener, high-temp consistency |
| Printing ink | 0.5–2.0 wt% | Anti-settling, tack and body |
| Sealants and adhesives | 0.5–2.0 wt% | Non-sag, thixotropic extrusion profile |
| Cosmetics (anhydrous) | 1.0–5.0 wt% | Suspension, texture in lipstick/eyeshadow |
| Nano-composite preparation | 1.0–10 wt% | Clay platelet intercalation/exfoliation |
| Fumed silica replacement | 0.3–0.8 wt% | Anti-settling, thixotropy at lower dose |
Fumed Silica Replacement Advantage: CP-180B replaces fumed silica at 50–70% of the fumed silica dosage while achieving equivalent or higher thixotropic index. The platelet gel mechanism provides superior anti-settling (yield point-based) vs. fumed silica's hydrogen-bond network (weaker, more temperature-sensitive). Additionally, CP-180B does not cause the respiratory hazard associated with fumed silica dust.
Incorporation Method
- Prepare pre-gel in solvent: charge solvent to disperser, add CP-180B at 6–10% by weight of pre-gel
- Disperse at high shear (1,500–2,500 rpm) for 5 minutes
- Add polar activator: 95% ethanol at 30–40% of CP-180B weight
- Continue high-shear mixing for 5 minutes; allow 10–15 minutes rest to develop gel structure
- Add pre-gel to full formulation during the let-down stage
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CP-180B replace fumed silica in coatings?
Yes. CP-180B replaces fumed silica in solvent-based coatings at 50–70% of the fumed silica dosage, achieving equal or higher thixotropic index. The platelet gel mechanism provides better anti-settling and anti-sag than fumed silica's hydrogen-bond network, particularly at elevated temperatures. Handling is also improved — no respiratory dust hazard associated with fumed silica. Not suitable for water-based systems; use
CP-EW for aqueous applications.
Full comparison → What makes CP-180B suitable for transparent coatings?
CP-180B produces a colorless, high-clarity gel in solvent systems — finer particle distribution minimizes haze in clear films. When fully dispersed at appropriate dosage (0.2–0.6 wt%) in aromatic or mixed-solvent lacquers, CP-180B does not cause visible clouding or turbidity in the applied film. This is critical for wood varnishes, automotive clear coats, and transparent industrial topcoats.
What polarity solvents is CP-180B designed for?
CP-180B is designed for intermediate and low polarity solvents: aromatic hydrocarbons (xylene, toluene), aliphatic/aromatic blends, and mineral spirits. With polar activator (30–40% ethanol), it extends into moderate-polarity ketone/ester blends. For self-activating performance in highly polar systems, use
CP-APA.
Packaging and Storage
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Standard packaging | 25 kg kraft paper bags with PE inner liner; 22.68 kg bags available |
| Shelf life | 2 years from manufacture date |
| Storage conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse; avoid moisture exposure |
Related grades: CP-34 (general purpose, higher gel strength) ·
CP-APA (self-activating, high-polarity systems) ·
CP-388 (widest polarity range, high purity)
Related pages: Organoclay vs Fumed Silica ·
Paint & Coatings ·
Cosmetics
