Syntactic foams are complex compounds produced by the incorporation of hollow spherical particles into a polymeric or ceramic matrix. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) states that synthetic foams have a resin matrix. The properties of synthetic foam can be largely determined by changing some parameters during their production such as the material […]
Category: 3M Glass Bubbles
The “miraculous” Hollow Microspheres – Bubbles!
General description The Hollow Microspheres are inert, hollow particles made mainly of silicon, alumina and boron-silicate soda lime, which inside their core contain inert gas (e.g. nitrogen) or carbon dioxide. They are the ideal lightweight fillers as they provide the lowest surface-to-volume ratio of any size. This fact results in the need for less resin […]
Special paints and coatings
Condensation and Related Issues There is always some moisture in the air, even if it is not readily visible. If air gets cold, it cannot hold all the moisture produced by everyday activities and some of this moisture appears as tiny droplets of water. This is readily noticeable on windows on a cold morning. This […]
Cool roof coatings
Introduction The expanding residential building market has placed a higher demand on electricity for cooling in warmer climate regions. This demand has created opportunities for coatings companies to investigate solar heat reflective coatings as a means to combat the increasing energy costs. Two popular areas being investigated in the architectural arena are roof and wall […]
The Ηigh technology of 3M Glass Bubbles
3M Glass Bubbles are used as additives in an astonishing variety of products. For example, they can be formulated into quick-drying, low-shrinkage spackling and other construction materials. They provide a wide range of additional benefits in applications ranging from sporting goods to solar reflective paint. As an ingredient in the plastic parts of your car, […]