Leveling Agents

What Exactly is a Leveling Agent?

A leveling agent is a surfactant-like compound that helps coatings, paints, and inks achieve a smoother, more uniform finish. It works by improving the flow and wetting properties of the liquid coating, which in turn reduces or eliminates common defects such as brush marks, orange peel, and craters.

Core Problem Solved: Leveling agents are most commonly used to prevent imperfections in the surface finish of coatings. These defects occur when the liquid coating fails to spread evenly across the surface, leading to unsightly marks. For example:

• Orange Peel: A bumpy texture resembling the skin of an orange.
• Brush Marks: Streaks left by the brush or applicator.
• Cratering and Pinholes: Small depressions or holes that appear as the coating dries.

Think of leveling agents like a small amount of soap in water. Just as soap helps water spread more evenly over a surface instead of beading up, a leveling agent helps a coating spread smoothly and uniformly.