I. Controlling Storage Environment Conditions
1. Temperature Management
Oil-based paints are recommended to be stored at 15–25℃, with a maximum of 30℃; water-based paints are best stored between 5–30℃.
Excessive temperature will damage the pigment's suspension, leading to precipitation and solidification; excessively low temperature may cause freeze-thaw cycles and emulsion breakdown in water-based paints.
2. Humidity Control
Relative humidity should be ≤75% to avoid rusting of the can or moisture absorption and clumping of the powder coating.
A hygrometer can be used for monitoring, and dehumidification equipment should be provided if necessary.
3. Protection from Light and Ventilation
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated indoor environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources (such as radiators and stoves).
Prolonged exposure to sunlight will raise the internal temperature of the can, accelerating solvent evaporation and skin formation.
II. Proper Use and Sealing Operation
1. Seal Immediately After Use
When the can is open but not completely used, be sure to tightly close the lid to prevent air from entering and causing oxidation and skin formation.
1. Cover the liquid surface with a layer of thinner or plastic wrap to isolate it from oxygen.
2. Stir or invert the container regularly.
For paint stored long-term, invert or lay the container horizontally every 1-2 months to break the sedimentation tendency.
Small amounts of leftover paint can be poured into small bottles and placed upside down to reduce accumulation at the bottom.
3. Avoid over-dilution.
Adding too much thinner will reduce viscosity, causing the pigment to lose its suspended state and sink.
Add thinner according to the product instructions, stir well, and use as soon as possible.
III. Choose high-quality containers and auxiliary technologies.
1. Use professional airtight containers.
Choose thickened tin cans with rubber sealing rings and double-layer rolled edges to improve static sealing performance.
Avoid using ordinary thin tin cans, as they are prone to deformation due to temperature differences, allowing air to seep in.
2. Add anti-settling agents or thixotropic agents.
Adding anti-settling agents such as fumed silica and modified bentonite to the paint formulation can improve suspension stability.
Thixotropic coatings maintain their structure when stationary and regain their fluidity after vibration, effectively preventing sedimentation.
3. Design Based on Patented Technology
For example, Shanghai Canda Building Materials Technology's anti-caking storage tank uses a motor-driven stirring blade and scraper to automatically agitate and clean the tank walls, preventing solidification.
IV. Other Practical Suggestions
First-In, First-Out (FIFO) Principle: Use products in order of production date to avoid long-term stockpiling.
Do not mix different batches of paint: Prevent component reactions or decreased stability.
Special Note for Powder Coatings: Storage temperature should not exceed 40℃, and regular light stirring is necessary to prevent clumping.
