In the formulation design of water-based architectural coatings, textile coatings, water-based adhesives, and paper coatings, relying solely on traditional hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) often falls short of meeting the rigorous demands of modern paints regarding in-can structure, leveling, spatter resistance during roller application, and balanced high-to-low shear viscosity. Furthermore, HEC systems suffer from inherent pain points such as susceptibility to enzymatic degradation, in-can viscosity drop, and tedious powder pre-dissolution, prompting formulators to transition toward more stable HASE (Hydrophobically Modified Alkali-Swellable Emulsions).

Tianjin Ruikel Chemical Co., Ltd. introduces the rayco® RT-3630 series HASE thickener portfolio, engineered with an eco-friendly polymer structure that is APEO-free, low-VOC, and low-odor. Neutralizing the system to pH 7 - 9 triggers a dual associative thickening mechanism, comprehensively covering the full spectrum of rheological needs—from high pseudoplastic anti-sagging (low/medium-shear) to efficient ICI leveling build (high-shear).

To assist R&D and formulation engineers in seamless product replacement and laboratory trials, we have mapped out a precise equivalent selection matrix benchmarking international industry standards (such as the Dow Acrysol™ / Rohm & Haas series).

I. In-Depth Product Breakdown & Formulation Synergy

1. RT-3634 (Benchmark: TT-615) — The Sentinel for In-Can Structure & Anti-Sagging

• Performance Characteristics: RT-3634 possesses exceptional pseudoplastic rheological holdup. Upon neutralization, it exhibits a strong yield value and gel structure in the can, effectively preventing pigment settling, phase separation, and sagging during long-term storage.

• Formulation Applications: Particularly suited for large particle size emulsions, low solid content, and high-PVC flat or silk interior wall coatings. For thick film coatings or moderate 3D texture paints, RT-3634 provides superior in-can appearance and vertical hold.

2. RT-3635 (Benchmark: DR-72) — Cost-Effective Low/Medium-Shear Co-Thickener

• Performance Characteristics: Similar to RT-3634, RT-3635 focuses on rapid viscosity build at low to medium shear rates (KU viscosity), offering greater formulation flexibility and cost efficiency across varying solid content systems.

• Formulation Applications: Widely utilized in water-based architectural coatings and textile adhesive systems. It performs exceptionally well in standard interior wall paints where a balance between cost and settling resistance is required.

3. RT-3637 (Benchmark: RM-7 / DR-73) — ICI Leveling & Spatter-Resistance Specialist

• Performance Characteristics: Unlike RT-3634/3635 which focus on in-can structure, RT-3637 specializes in building ICI viscosity under high shear rates. It significantly enhances film fullness, application drag, leveling, and hiding power, while drastically reducing roller spatter and web spattering during high-speed application.

• Formulation Applications: Can be used as the primary thickener in premium interior wall coatings or small particle size emulsion / low-PVC formulations.

Laboratory Best Practices & Formulation Tips

1. The "Low-Shear + High-Shear" Golden Combo:In most medium-to-high-grade interior paints, using a low-shear thickener alone leads to poor leveling, while relying solely on a high-shear thickener results in a watery, settlement-prone in-can state. Combining RT-3634 (or RT-3635) with RT-3637 is highly recommended:

• RT-3634 / RT-3635 provides in-can structure, anti-settling, and anti-sagging (low/medium shear).

• RT-3637 provides film fullness, hiding power, and roller leveling (high-shear ICI).This combination achieves an ideal rheological balance across low, medium, and high shear rates.

2. Standardized Addition Process:

• System pH Control: HASE thickeners must be neutralized to pH 7 - 9 to uncoil the polymer chains and release viscosity. Adjust the system pH to the appropriate range prior to addition.

• Dilution to Prevent Local Gelling: Because RT-3634/3635/3637 thicken rapidly, adding undiluted emulsion directly can cause local shock or gelling. It is best practice to pre-dilute the thickener with 3–5 parts water under good agitation before slow addition into the mix.

• Viscosity Fine-Tuning: If the viscosity exceeds design target values during grinding, adding a small amount of surfactant or glycol ether co-solvent will moderately reduce low-shear viscosity, allowing precise rheological adjustments.

3. Enzyme & Microbe Resistance:Unlike HEC which is prone to enzymatic degradation causing in-can thinning, the rayco® RT-3630 series features inherent resistance to microbial and enzymatic attack, ensuring extended shelf-life and minimizing post-sale quality risks.

II. Summary & Sample Requests

Ruike Chemical’s rayco® RT-3634, RT-3635, and RT-3637 HASE thickener portfolio provides seamless equivalents to Acrysol TT-615, DR-72, and RM-7 / DR-73 from the molecular level up. Whether you are seeking extreme in-can anti-settling or top-tier ICI leveling and spatter resistance, this series offers an economical, stable, and highly effective solution for cost-performance optimization.

To download full Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), or request free laboratory evaluation samples, visit our technical portal at www.rk-chem.com.

•  Visit www.rk-chem.com to explore more selection guides for water-based architectural coatings and adhesives.

• Contact the Ruike Chemical application engineering team today to receive benchmark formulation advice and request free laboratory test samples!