Shining Finish
The Appearance of Sheen in Today’s Coatings
by James Howell, Product Manager for Sto Corp.
(Editor’s Note: James Howell is an associate product manager for Sto® Corp. and is focused on façade claddings. He has a degree in business management and has more than 20 years of experience working with EIFS, stucco, air, and moisture barriers in the Research and Development and Marketing Departments.)
The term sheen refers to the glossy or reflective characteristic of a surface, which is determined by the quantity of light it reflects. Historically, coatings that exhibit a higher gloss level are known to reflect more light and a higher level of protection. Matte coatings reflect less light and are appreciated for their subtle appearance. Recent technological innovations are redefining these traditional concepts. What’s driving this evolution, and how are modern coatings challenging the old rules?
History of Sheen
The late 19th century represented a crucial milestone in the evolution of enamel wall coatings in Europe and America, setting standards for gloss levels. At that time, linseed oil became the key ingredient for producing a glossy finish, with painters employing mixing techniques to create different sheens. Modern technology has progressed significantly, with gloss meters now providing precise measurements of light reflection, which minimizes subjective assessments and ensures uniform sheen consistency.
Modern coatings consist of four key components: pigments, binders, solvents, and additives. Pigments provide color, while binders are essential for holding the pigments together in the formulation. Solvents enable the application of the mixture onto various surfaces, and additives enhance specific properties, such as mildew resistance. The proportion of binder in a coating plays a crucial role in determining its sheen. A higher binder content leads to a glossy finish, whereas a lower concentration allows more pigment particles to be visible, resulting in a matte appearance. While matte finishes can effectively conceal surface flaws, they often present greater challenges in terms of maintenance and cleaning.
Science behind the Sheen
The sheen of a coating is influenced by several key factors, including light interaction, surface texture, material composition, and environmental conditions. Sheen is a result of the combined effects of light reflection and absorption. Elements such as surface roughness, coating formulation, and the angle that light strikes the surface can significantly impact the perceived sheen. For example, a surface may appear glossier from certain angles than when viewed directly. Furthermore, environmental conditions like humidity and temperature are critical in determining the final appearance, as they influence the coating’s drying properties. Critical lighting characterized by sharp angles from sources like light fixtures or windows can highlight surface imperfections. Companies such as 9Wood, which focuses on wood ceilings, note that these lighting conditions can reveal every flaw. Therefore, selecting the appropriate sheen level is essential, as it can effectively mask imperfections, even under detailed lighting.
Innovating for Performance and Sustainability
The drive for innovation is shaped by multiple factors, such as design aesthetics, color choices, effects of climate change, sustainable practices, dependability of raw materials, and evolving environmental regulations. Historically, oil-based coatings were preferred, however, their dependence on solvents like acetone and mineral spirits for cleaning led to the emission of harmful fumes. The increasing regulatory requirements have led to a notable shift towards water-based polymer coatings, which provide a more eco-friendly alternative and allow for simpler cleanup using only soap and water.
In a recent CoatingsTech magazine survey, Sjaak Griffioen, Director of Innovation, Strategy, and Sustainability at DSM Coating Resins and Functional Materials, sums up his take on innovation: “There’s a focus on alternative raw materials creating the highest performing coatings partially made from waste or renewable raw materials. It is now all about coatings and coatings with higher performance than currently available without any negative environmental or indoor air quality impact.”
Griffioen continued: “Higher performance in combination with reduction of VOC to zero, as well as the reduction or even deletion of substances of high concern, do give companies like DSM fantastic opportunities in new polymer design.”
Sheen has been essential in driving innovation and progress in coating innovations, enabling the creation of sustainable coatings that maintain aesthetic quality. Advances in raw material science and formulation technologies have led to eco-friendly coatings that not only meet but exceed the requirements for sheen and durability of traditional alternatives.
Inspiration can arise from various sources beyond those mentioned in this text. In addition to the impact of market dynamics on innovation, the coatings industry continually explores new avenues for inspiration to enhance its creative endeavors.
Future of Coatings
The evolution of coatings has shifted from their historical role as artistic mediums, which relied on natural resources for pigments and binders, to advanced technological solutions designed to meet both environmental and aesthetic requirements. Ongoing research and development efforts are enhancing the capabilities of coatings, particularly through the integration of technology and sustainable materials. As the availability of natural resources declines, coatings must evolve beyond mere decoration and protection to support sustainability efforts. The current approach is unsustainable, necessitating coatings that fulfill both aesthetic and functional purposes. There is a pressing need to remove specific raw materials from end products, contributing to the global transition to renewable energy, and assist end users in minimizing their environmental impact. This demand has catalyzed innovation and advancements in product development.
One emerging trend is smart coatings, which are engineered to prolong the lifespan of coatings and decrease the frequency of maintenance required. The recent advancements in technology have played a significant role in the development of sheen, which embodies a harmonious blend of artistic expression and scientific principles. This integration guarantees that coatings not only fulfill practical requirements but also satisfy aesthetic preferences, thereby enhancing their overall appeal and functionality. Clearly the future of coatings looks promising, reflecting the creativity and ingenuity of the innovators driving this industry forward.
