1. Introduction

Waterborne colorants are pigment dispersions using water as the continuous phase, formulated to meet VOC limits under GB 38508 and EU Decopaint Directive. The dispersion mechanism—electrostatic stabilization, steric hindrance and wetting—is the scientific foundation of WT series by DENSON. This paper explains the 3 key stability factors.

2. Technical Features and Mechanism

A waterborne colorant is defined as a pigment pre-dispersion in water with dispersant, defoamer and anti-freeze, designed for tinting architectural, wood and industrial coatings.

Fig.1 Waterborne colorant slurry in beaker

The three stabilization mechanisms are: (1) electrostatic repulsion via zeta potential −35 to −45 mV; (2) steric hindrance from polymeric dispersant tails; (3) wetting and deagglomeration by surfactant. ACS Appl. Energy Mater. 2025 reported P(VP-AA-AM) terpolymer dispersant (Mw≈25K) for LMFP cathode slurry, extending this science to battery materials.

3. Case 1: Architectural Latex

4. Case 2: Wood Coatings

Fig.2 Green waterborne colorant

For waterborne wood coatings, D50≤0.15 μm and transparency ≥92% are required to retain wood grain. WT series achieves this with nano-grinding.

5. Case 3: Industrial Anti-corrosion

Steel structure anti-corrosion requires salt spray ≥720 h (GB/T 1771). WT series inorganic pigments pass this test.

Fig.3 Green waterborne coating slurry

6. Key Selection Parameters

More products: DENSON colorant products.

7. Conclusion

Waterborne colorant stability depends on zeta potential, steric hindrance and wetting; WT series delivers D50≤0.2 μm, fineness≤15 μm and VOC≤80 g/L.

8. FAQ

Q1: What is the ideal zeta potential for waterborne colorant?
A: −35 to −45 mV provides sufficient electrostatic repulsion for long-term stability.

Q2: Why does waterborne colorant thicken over time?
A: Usually due to dispersant desorption or pH drift; adjust pH to 8.5–9.0 and add dispersant.

Q3: Can waterborne colorant be used in solvent-borne systems?
A: No, waterborne carriers are incompatible with solvent-borne resins; use solvent-based colorant instead.

Q4: What is the typical shelf life?
A: 12 months sealed at 5–35°C; avoid freezing.