Rethinking Coalescing Agents: A VOC-Free Future with CIANOL-16

*Chemion AG’s innovative, VOC-compliant solutions for water-based coatings*

What Are Coalescing Agents?

In water-based paints and coatings, coalescing agents are crucial additives that help dispersed polymer particles merge (or “coalesce”) into a smooth, continuous film after application. Without them, latex polymers often fail to form durable, uniform films, especially under low-temperature or low-humidity conditions.

A well-designed coalescent:
- Reduces the minimum film formation temperature (MFFT)
- Enhances mechanical resistance and durability
- Ensures optimum surface leveling and gloss
- Contributes to scrub and water resistance

The VOC Challenge

Most conventional coalescing agents are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate into the atmosphere, posing challenges for health, odor, and compliance with:
- EU Decopaint Directive 2004/42/EC
- Solvent Emissions Directive (1999/13/EC)
- China VOC Regulations

As a result, paint formulators and brand owners are under increasing pressure to find non-VOC or low-VOC alternatives without sacrificing film quality or performance.

The CIANOL Range: Smart Chemistry by Chemion AG

Chemion AG's CIANOL series offers modern, efficient, and environmentally aligned coalescing agents for all types of latex emulsions used in paints, adhesives, and sealants.

CIANOL-12

*Monoester type – broad resin compatibility*

Chemical: 2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-Pentanediol Monoisobutyrate
CAS: 25265-77-4

Property	Value
Appearance	Colorless transparent liquid
Purity (GC)	≥ 99.0%
Distillation Range	251–259°C
Water Content	≤ 0.1%
Acidity (as HAC)	≤ 0.02%
VOC Classification	Low-VOC
Odor Profile	Mild, acceptable

Key Benefits:
- Effective in vinyl acetate, acrylic, styrene-acrylic and VAE systems
- Good resin compatibility
- Safe and reliable for decorative paints
- Well-balanced evaporation profile

CIANOL-16

*Diester-based, non-VOC, ultra-green coalescent*

Chemical: 2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-Pentanediol Diisobutyrate
CAS: 25265-77-4

Property	Value
Appearance	Colorless liquid
Purity (w/w)	≥ 99.0%
Boiling Point	281°C
Flash Point	136°C
Freezing Point	≤ –70°C
VOC Classification	Non-VOC (EU + China compliant)
Odor Profile	Very low odor

Key Benefits:
- Meets global VOC compliance standards
- Compatible with all water-based paint systems
- Enhances pigment wetting and rheology
- Improves scrub resistance, hardness, and film quality
- Synergistic with thickeners, reducing formulation cost

Application Areas

✅ Interior and exterior architectural coatings
✅ DIY paints and odor-sensitive environments
✅ Low-MFFT paints and winter formulations
✅ Green-certified coatings (EU Ecolabel, Blue Angel, LEED)

Packaging & Delivery

- 200 kg iron drums or 950 kg IBCs
- Supplied with full documentation: TDS, SDS, COA
- Available globally through Chemion AG’s logistics network

Conclusion

The CIANOL range allows formulators to meet modern performance needs while staying ahead of VOC regulations. Whether you're producing affordable decorative paints or targeting the eco-premium segment, CIANOL-12 and CIANOL-16 offer reliable, clean, and safe coalescing solutions for a better paint film and a cleaner environment.

Contact Us

Email: info@chemionag.com
Web: www.chemionag.com

CHEMION AG – Chemistry that performs. Responsibility that lasts.