HY CHEMCIAL(KUNSHAN)CO.,LTD
The Core Differences Between Leveling Agent 358 and Leveling Agent 381
The core difference between Leveling Agent HY-358 and Leveling Agent HY-381 is: the former is a solvent-based leveling agent, while the latter is a water-based leveling agent. There are significant differences in their applicable coating systems, chemical compositions, and application scenarios.
I. Basic Type and Applicable System Differences
Leveling Agent HY-358
Belongs to a solvent-based polyacrylate leveling agent, mainly used in medium- to high-polarity solvent-based coating systems.
Applicable to: automotive coatings, industrial coatings, printing inks, room-temperature curing plastic systems (such as polyurethane and epoxy resin), etc.
The solvent is alkylbenzene. It is insoluble in water and has poor compatibility with water-based systems.
Leveling Agent HY-381
A water-based ionic polyacrylate surface additive, specially designed for water-based coatings.
Applicable to: water-based industrial coatings, automotive coatings, furniture paints, printing inks, adhesives, UV coatings, etc.
The solvent is dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, offering good water solubility and wetting properties.
Simple selection rule:
For water-based formulations, choose HY-381 first.
For solvent-based or solvent-free systems, choose HY-358.
II. Comparison of Chemical Composition and Physical Properties
Item | HY-358 | HY-381 |
Main Component | Polyacrylate solution | Ionic polyacrylate solution |
Active Content | Approx. 99% | 52% |
Density | 0.95 g/cm³ | 1.03 g/cm³ |
Solubility | Oil-based / solvent-based | Water-based / water-oil compatible |
Appearance | Light brown liquid | Transparent light yellow liquid |
Note: Although both are polyacrylates, HY-381 has an ionic structure, which facilitates dispersion in aqueous phases and improves wettability.
III. Functional Characteristics and Application Differences
Advantages of HY-358
• Produces a 'long-wave leveling effect,' improving coating leveling and preventing defects such as cratering and fisheyes.
• Good thermal stability, suitable for high-temperature baking processes (e.g., automotive paint baked at 80°C).
• Does not affect recoatability; suitable for multi-coat processes.
• Recommended dosage: 0.1%–1%. Can be added at the post-addition stage; flexible operation.
Advantages of HY-381
• Significantly improves wettability and compatibility in water-based coatings, preventing cratering caused by substrate contamination.
• Enhances gloss and film smoothness, especially suitable for wood coatings, PU leather coatings, and other applications requiring high surface quality.
• Minimal impact on surface tension, beneficial for intercoat adhesion.
• Recommended dosage: 0.1%–1.0%. It is suggested to add during the grinding stage or paint adjustment stage.
IV. Selection Recommendation: Choose Based on Your System
Choose HY-358 when:
• Using solvent-based epoxy, polyester, or polyurethane systems.
• Requiring high-temperature baking stability.
• Focusing on long-wave leveling and anti-cratering performance.
Choose HY-381 when:
• Using water-based industrial coatings, furniture paints, or adhesives.
• Requiring good wettability and substrate adaptability.
• Formulations containing high water content or emulsion systems.
Reminder: The two products are not directly interchangeable. If HY-381 is used in a solvent-based system, phase separation may occur. Conversely, HY-358N may cause emulsion breaking and precipitation in water-based systems.
Address: No. 5-1, Lide Enterprise Park, Huaqiao, Kunshan, Jiangsu
www.hychemistry.com www.hy-chemical.cn
Email: Harry@shlasej.net