3M Glass Bubbles are used in many different areas. The tiny, high-strength hollow glass spheres are a popular fillers in paints, lacquers, adhesives and coatings, among other things. 3M has therefore carried out research in this area in the past years and has achieved significant advances in the Glass Bubbles technology.
Reduction in costs - consistently good performance
Glass Bubbles offer many advantages: as an additive in paints and lacquers, 3M Glass Bubbles lead to a very fine shine control with constantly good processing properties. They reduce the thermal conductivity of the formulations and help to avoid shrinkage. A bonus for the environment: 3M Glass Bubbles help to significantly reduce the VOC portion by increasing the solid content.
3M Dyneon PTFE Micropowders
Another highlight at the ECS are the PTFE Micropowders for use as additives in coatings and paints. Dyneon PTFE micropowders exhibit excellent non-stick properties and almost universal chemical resistance. They are permanently usable within a wide temperature range of -190 °C to +260 °C and improve the flowing and wetting properties of paints and coatings. In addition, they feature a high resistance to weathering influences, in particular to UV radiation. The recommendations for the area of usage of the Dyneon PTFE Micropowders extend from coating formulations to high-performance greases, waxes and oils through to printing inks and anti-friction coatings.
3M Ceramic Microspheres
Ceramic microspheres are also used as additives for paints and lacquers, from solvent-based and aqueous lacquers to UV-drying lacquers and adhesives. As opposed to many irregularly shaped fillers, ceramic microspheres have a symmetrical spherical shape. This contributes to a lower viscosity, better flow properties and easier spraying.