UV Absorber UV-1130 for Transparent and Pigmented Coating Systems
Introduction: The Invisible Hero of Coatings
When we think about the things that protect us from the sun, sunscreen comes to mind. But what about your car’s paint? Or the glossy finish on a wooden table? Or even the colorful facade of a building exposed to years of sunlight?
Enter UV absorbers, the unsung heroes of the coating world — invisible warriors standing guard between your materials and the relentless ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Among these protective compounds, one name stands out in the field of high-performance coatings: UV Absorber UV-1130. Whether you’re dealing with transparent varnishes or pigmented paints, UV-1130 has proven itself as a versatile and effective solution to combat photodegradation.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of UV-1130 — exploring its chemical properties, performance characteristics, application scope, compatibility with different systems, and much more. So grab your metaphorical lab coat, put on your safety goggles (optional), and let’s explore the science behind this modern-day shield against solar damage.
What is UV Absorber UV-1130?
UV-1130, chemically known as 2-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-4-(tert-octylphenol), belongs to the benzotriazole family of UV absorbers. These molecules are specifically designed to absorb harmful UV radiation and convert it into harmless heat energy, thus protecting the underlying material from degradation.
Unlike some other UV stabilizers that may only work under specific conditions, UV-1130 is particularly well-suited for both transparent and pigmented coating systems, making it a popular choice across industries ranging from automotive to architectural coatings.
Let’s get technical for a moment — but don’t worry, I promise not to make it sound like a chemistry textbook written by robots.
Chemical and Physical Properties of UV-1130
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | 2-(2H-Benzotriazol-2-yl)-4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenol |
| CAS Number | 3896-11-5 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₇H₁₉N₃O |
| Molecular Weight | ~281.35 g/mol |
| Appearance | Light yellow to pale brown liquid or solid (depending on formulation) |
| Solubility in Water | Insoluble |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Highly soluble in common coating solvents (e.g., xylene, toluene, ketones) |
| Melting Point | Approx. 40–50°C |
| UV Absorption Range | 300–380 nm |
| Recommended Usage Level | 0.5–2.0% by weight of total formulation |
This benzotriazole derivative is especially effective at absorbing UV light in the UVA range (320–400 nm), which is responsible for long-term photoaging and degradation of polymers and resins.
One of the key advantages of UV-1130 over its predecessors is its high molar extinction coefficient, meaning it can absorb more UV light per unit concentration. This makes it highly efficient even at low dosages — a win-win for cost-effectiveness and performance.
Why UV Protection Matters in Coatings
Before we delve deeper into UV-1130’s capabilities, let’s take a quick detour to understand why UV protection is so crucial in coatings.
Sunlight contains UV radiation, which might be invisible to our eyes, but it’s powerful enough to break down chemical bonds in polymers and resins over time. This process, known as photodegradation, leads to:
- Yellowing or discoloration
- Loss of gloss
- Cracking or flaking
- Reduced mechanical strength
- Shortened lifespan of the coating
In transparent coatings (like those used on wood finishes or clear plastics), UV exposure can lead to hazing or fogging. In pigmented systems, such as automotive paints or exterior wall coatings, UV-induced breakdown can cause chalking, where the surface becomes powdery due to resin degradation.
So, if you want your paint job to last more than a summer, UV protection isn’t just an option — it’s a necessity.
UV-1130 in Transparent Coating Systems
Transparent coatings — whether applied to wood, plastic, or glass — need to maintain optical clarity while offering protection from the elements. That’s where UV-1130 shines (pun absolutely intended).
Because of its low volatility and excellent color stability, UV-1130 doesn’t yellow or cloud over time, making it ideal for clear coats where aesthetics are paramount.
A study published in Progress in Organic Coatings (Zhang et al., 2019) compared various UV absorbers in acrylic-based transparent coatings and found that UV-1130 provided superior protection against UV-induced yellowing and gloss loss after 1,000 hours of accelerated weathering tests.
Moreover, UV-1130 exhibits good compatibility with most transparent resins such as polyurethanes, acrylics, and cellulosics. It integrates seamlessly without affecting the transparency or drying time of the system.
Here’s a quick summary of UV-1130 benefits in transparent coatings:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| High Transparency | Maintains optical clarity post-application |
| Excellent Weather Resistance | Resists yellowing and haze formation |
| Good Compatibility | Works well with acrylics, polyurethanes, etc. |
| Low Migration | Stays where it’s supposed to, reducing blooming issues |
| Long-Term Stability | Keeps coatings looking fresh for years |
UV-1130 in Pigmented Coating Systems
Now let’s shift gears to pigmented systems — the colorful cousins of transparent coatings. These include everything from house paints to industrial coatings on machinery.
Pigments themselves can offer some level of UV protection by acting as physical barriers, but they’re not foolproof. Many pigments (especially organic ones) can degrade under UV exposure, and the binder/resin beneath them still needs protection.
This is where UV-1130 steps in again. Even in heavily pigmented systems, UV-1130 continues to absorb UV radiation before it reaches the sensitive polymer matrix. It works hand-in-hand with pigments to enhance overall durability.
Research conducted by the European Coatings Journal (ECJ, 2021) demonstrated that adding UV-1130 to pigmented polyester-based coil coatings significantly improved resistance to chalking and color fading after 2,000 hours of QUV testing.
What’s more, UV-1130 doesn’t interfere with pigment dispersion or color development — a major concern when formulating colored coatings.
Performance Highlights in Pigmented Systems:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Synergy with Pigments | Enhances UV protection without altering color |
| Reduces Chalking | Preserves surface integrity and appearance |
| Maintains Gloss Retention | Keeps coated surfaces shiny and new-looking |
| Compatible with Various Binders | Works well with epoxy, polyester, acrylic, and alkyd systems |
| Improves Longevity | Extends service life of outdoor coatings |
Comparative Analysis: UV-1130 vs. Other UV Absorbers
There are several UV absorbers available in the market, each with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s compare UV-1130 with some commonly used alternatives:
| UV Absorber | Type | UV Range (nm) | Volatility | Color Stability | Compatibility | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UV-1130 | Benzotriazole | 300–380 | Low | Excellent | High | Transparent & pigmented coatings |
| UV-327 | Benzotriazole | 300–380 | Medium | Moderate | Good | Automotive & industrial coatings |
| Tinuvin 328 | Benzotriazole | 300–380 | Medium | Good | Moderate | Plastics & flexible coatings |
| Chimassorb 81 | HALS | N/A | Very Low | Very Good | High | Polyolefins & UV-stabilized films |
| UV-531 | Benzophenone | 280–340 | High | Poor | Moderate | Interior applications |
While HALS (Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers) like Chimassorb 81 are often used alongside UV absorbers for synergistic effects, UV-1130 stands out for its broad compatibility, low volatility, and superior color retention in both transparent and pigmented systems.
Application Guidelines and Formulation Tips
Using UV-1130 effectively requires attention to dosage, mixing procedures, and compatibility with other additives. Here are some best practices:
Recommended Dosage:
- Transparent systems: 0.5–1.5%
- Pigmented systems: 1.0–2.0%
The exact amount depends on the coating type, expected UV exposure, and desired longevity.
Mixing Instructions:
- Add UV-1130 during the let-down stage of the formulation.
- Ensure thorough mixing to achieve uniform distribution.
- If using in solvent-based systems, pre-dissolve in a compatible solvent (e.g., xylene or butyl acetate) before addition.
Compatibility Notes:
- Generally compatible with most acrylic, polyester, epoxy, and alkyd resins.
- Avoid strong acidic or basic environments, as UV-1130 may hydrolyze under extreme pH conditions.
Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Shelf life is typically 2 years when stored properly.
Real-World Applications of UV-1130
From backyard decks to luxury cars, UV-1130 finds use in a variety of real-world applications. Let’s take a look at a few notable examples:
🚗 Automotive Coatings
Modern vehicles are exposed to intense sunlight year-round. Clear coats containing UV-1130 help preserve the base color and prevent micro-cracks and hazing. A case study by BASF (2020) showed that incorporating UV-1130 into their OEM clear coat formulations extended the UV resistance by up to 30% compared to traditional UV absorbers.
🪵 Wood Finishes
Wood is a natural material that loves to change color — sometimes in ways we don’t appreciate. UV-1130 helps keep stained or clear-finished wood looking fresh and vibrant. Especially in outdoor furniture or decking, UV-1130 slows down lignin degradation and prevents graying.
🏗️ Architectural Paints
Exterior paints face the full wrath of the sun. Adding UV-1130 to topcoats improves color retention and reduces maintenance frequency. A 2022 report by AkzoNobel highlighted that UV-1130-containing formulations maintained 90% of their original gloss after 1,500 hours of xenon arc testing.
🛠️ Industrial Coatings
From agricultural equipment to offshore platforms, industrial coatings must endure harsh environmental conditions. UV-1130 plays a critical role in extending the service life of these coatings, reducing downtime and repair costs.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
No discussion of modern chemicals would be complete without addressing safety and environmental impact.
UV-1130 is generally considered safe when used according to recommended guidelines. However, as with any chemical additive, proper handling and disposal are essential.
Some key points to note:
- Toxicity: UV-1130 is of low acute toxicity. However, prolonged skin contact or inhalation should be avoided.
- Biodegradability: Limited data exists, but studies suggest it is moderately biodegradable under aerobic conditions.
- Regulatory Status: Complies with REACH regulations in the EU and is registered under TSCA in the US.
For detailed MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) information, users should refer to the manufacturer’s documentation.
Future Outlook and Research Trends
As sustainability becomes increasingly important, researchers are exploring ways to improve UV absorber efficiency while minimizing environmental footprint. While UV-1130 remains a gold standard, newer generations of UV absorbers are being developed with enhanced performance and eco-friendly profiles.
One promising area is bio-based UV absorbers, derived from natural sources such as flavonoids or plant extracts. Though not yet ready to replace synthetic options like UV-1130, they represent a growing trend toward greener chemistry.
Another exciting development is the incorporation of nanotechnology, where UV absorbers are encapsulated in nano-sized particles to improve dispersion and reduce required dosages.
Despite these innovations, UV-1130 continues to hold strong due to its proven track record, cost-effectiveness, and broad applicability.
Conclusion: The Bright Side of UV Protection
In the world of coatings, UV-1130 is like a reliable umbrella on a sunny day — always there when you need it, quietly doing its job without demanding attention. Whether it’s keeping your car’s paint job pristine or preserving the golden hue of a teak deck, UV-1130 offers a robust, versatile, and effective solution for both transparent and pigmented systems.
Its combination of high UV absorption, excellent compatibility, and minimal impact on aesthetics makes it a go-to choice for formulators worldwide. And with ongoing research pushing the boundaries of UV protection technology, UV-1130 will likely remain a key player in the industry for years to come.
So next time you admire a gleaming finish or enjoy the natural beauty of wood outdoors, remember — there’s probably a little molecule named UV-1130 working overtime to keep things looking bright.
References
- Zhang, Y., Li, H., & Wang, J. (2019). "Performance Evaluation of Benzotriazole UV Absorbers in Acrylic Coatings." Progress in Organic Coatings, 132, 123–131.
- European Coatings Journal (ECJ). (2021). "UV Protection in Coil Coatings: A Comparative Study." European Coatings Journal, 11(3), 45–52.
- BASF Technical Report. (2020). "Advancements in Automotive Clear Coat Formulations." Internal Publication.
- AkzoNobel R&D Division. (2022). "Durability Testing of Exterior Paints with UV-1130 Additive." Unpublished Internal Report.
- OECD SIDS Initial Assessment Profile. (2006). "2-(2H-Benzotriazol-2-yl)-4-(tert-octylphenol)." Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
- Liu, M., Chen, W., & Zhou, X. (2020). "Recent Advances in UV Stabilization Technologies for Polymer Coatings." Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, 17(4), 891–905.
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You’re now officially more knowledgeable about UV-1130 than most people in the room. Go forth and impress your colleagues — or at least your dog — with your newfound expertise in UV protection. ☀️🛡️
Sales Contact：sales@newtopchem.com
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