Many coating defects, gas problems, and uneven metallic color are not due to material quality, but rather to improper aluminum paste processing. By using the correct methods, you can avoid over 90% of common problems and ensure stable and reliable coating performance.

Why Proper Use of Aluminum Paste Matters

Aluminum paste is highly sensitive to humidity, pH, shear stress, and solvent systems.

Improper handling may lead to the following problems:

• Gas generation

• Precipitation or stratification

• Poor metal orientation

• Decreased brightness

• Corrosion or reaction with water

• Incompatibility with binders

Most problems can be avoided by following these key steps.

1. Correct Dispersion: The First Step to Stable Performance

Proper dispersion ensures uniform flake orientation and metallic effect.

Best practices

• Add aluminum paste slowly into solvent or resin, never the reverse.

• Use low to medium shear to avoid breaking flakes.

• Avoid high-speed dispersion for long periods.

• Filter coarse particles before use only if recommended by the supplier.

Why it matters

Aluminum flakes are soft. Excessive shear leads to broken particles, grey appearance, and loss of brightness.

2. Avoid Water and High pH Environments

Aluminum reacts with water or alkaline substances, creating hydrogen gas.

Do NOT mix aluminum paste with

• Waterborne dispersions without surface-treated grades

• High-pH additives

• Amines, ammonia, or alkaline neutralizers

Solutions

• Use water-based aluminum paste specifically designed for low-gassing systems.

• Check pH of the formula before addition (ideal pH: 6–8).

• Ensure the environment and containers are fully dry.

3. Choose the Right Aluminum Paste Grade for Your System

Different systems require different types of metallic pigment.

Types of aluminum paste

• Leafing aluminum paste – floats and forms a reflective surface

• Non-leafing aluminum paste – distributes evenly inside the coating

• Resin-coated aluminum paste – improves corrosion resistance and stability

• Water-based aluminum paste – low gas, stable in waterborne systems

Why selection matters

Using the wrong grade can lead to poor adhesion, darkening, streaking, or corrosion.

Application & Deeper Comparison

Common Causes vs. Solutions Table

Proper technique eliminates most problems before they appear.

Conclusion (Call to Action)

Using aluminum paste correctly eliminates most coating problems and ensures consistent metallic brightness, stability, and storage safety. Proper dispersion, correct grade selection, and moisture control are key to success.

Silver Rocket provides high-performance aluminum paste, water-based aluminum paste, and specialized metallic pigments tailored for industrial coatings.

Email: info@silverocket.com
Website: https://www.silverocket.com/