1. Physical Properties
- Pore Volume (ml/g): High porosity delivers more scattering sites per gram.
- Particle Size (d50): Must be matched to DFT to avoid submergence or grit.
- Surface Modification: Untreated silica offers 10% higher efficiency than waxed grades.
2. Logic Comparison
| Parameter | Higher Efficiency | Higher Stability |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment | Untreated | Wax-Treated |
| Shrinkage | Solvent-Based (High) | UV/Powder (Zero) |
| DFT Match | d50 ≈ DFT | d50 << DFT |
Case Study: [GMATT 100](/products/gmatt-100-series)
The 100 Series utilizes maximum pore volume to ensure aggressive matting in high-performance industrial stacks where inter-coat adhesion is critical.
Technical FAQ & Troubleshooting
+Why does matting efficiency drop in 100% solid UV coatings?
Unlike solvent systems, UV resins don't shrink during curing. This keeps silica particles submerged. Use our low oil-absorption UV Series to enable the higher dosages needed for dead-matte finishes.
+How can I avoid the "blue haze" in dark wood finishes?
Hazing is caused by light scattering at the wrong refractive index. Use high-transparency silica with tight particle distribution to ensure clarity in dark walnut wood coatings.
+Does high oil absorption lead to viscosity spikes?
Yes. In high-solid formulations, silica with high oil absorption "soaks up" too much resin, making the coating unworkable. Balancing Pore Volume and Oil Absorption is the key to rheology control.
+Will untreated silica cause hard settling during storage?
Without wax treatment, silica aggregates can form hard cakes. We recommend using a fumed silica anti-settling agent to build a 3D network that keeps matting particles in suspension.
+How does particle size affect scratch and burnish resistance?
Smaller particles generally provide better burnish resistance, while larger particles (matching DFT) offer better raw matting power. Wax-treated silica is essential for surface slip and scratch protection.