In marine polyurethane coatings, the use of leveling agents and slip agents can significantly improve the surface quality and performance of the coating.
Leveling Agent
The main function of the leveling agent is to improve the fluidity and leveling of the coating, so that the coating can form a smooth and uniform surface during the curing process. In marine polyurethane coatings, the importance of leveling agents is reflected in the following aspects:

Improve the aesthetics of the coating: Leveling agents can reduce defects such as orange peel and pinholes on the coating surface, making the coating surface smoother and more delicate, thereby improving the aesthetics of the coating.
Enhance coating adhesion: By improving the fluidity of the coating, leveling agents help the coating to better wet and penetrate into the substrate surface, thereby enhancing the adhesion between the coating and the substrate.
Improve coating durability: Leveling agents can reduce micro cracks and pores on the coating surface, reducing the risk of the coating being corroded by the external environment, thereby improving the durability of the coating.
Common types of leveling agents include silicone, polyurethane, fluorocarbon, etc. These leveling agents usually have low surface tension and good wetting properties, which can effectively improve the fluidity and leveling properties of the coating.

Slip Agent
The main function of the slip agent is to reduce the friction coefficient of the coating surface, making the coating surface smoother and easier to slide. In marine polyurethane coatings, the importance of slip agents is reflected in the following aspects:

Improve the wear resistance of the coating: By reducing the friction coefficient of the coating surface, the slip agent can reduce the wear caused by friction during use of the coating, thereby improving the wear resistance of the coating.
Improve the feel of the coating: Slip agents can give the coating surface a silky, supple touch, making the coating more comfortable during use.
Prevent coating adhesion: When multiple layers are applied or when the coating comes into contact with other materials, slip agents can prevent adhesion between coatings or between coatings and materials, thereby maintaining the integrity and aesthetics of the coating.
Common types of slip agents include silicone oils, waxes, fatty acid esters, etc. These slip agents usually have a low friction coefficient and good dispersion properties, which can effectively reduce the friction coefficient of the coating surface and improve the feel of the coating.

Selection and usage suggestions

Selecting the Right Additives: When selecting leveling and slip agents, the selection should be based on the specific requirements and performance needs of the marine polyurethane coating. At the same time, the compatibility and stability of the additive and coating system need to be considered.
Control the amount added: Excessive amounts of additives may negatively affect the performance of the coating. Therefore, the addition amount should be strictly controlled when using it to ensure that the additive is evenly distributed in the coating and has the best effect.

Pay attention to mixing evenly: When adding leveling agents and slip agents, make sure they are fully mixed with the coating system to avoid local concentrations that are too high or too low.

Leveling and slip agents play an important role in marine polyurethane coatings. Through the rational selection and use of these additives, the surface quality and performance of the coating can be significantly improved, thereby meeting the high requirements for coatings in the shipbuilding industry.

Product:	Main components:	Type:	Solid content(%):
Slip CFC-710	Polyether modified polysiloxane	Primer, midcoat, topcoat	25
Letch CFC-89	High molecular weight acrylic copolymer	Primer, midcoat, topcoat	52