These are aqueous systems using technology which produces a polymer which has a high molecular weight core, hence good physical and chemical resistance properties which is surrounded by an encapsulating polymer. This encapsulating polymer gives the system unique rheology characteristics. ICI, the leaders of this type of polymer, have developed this from their established non-aqueous dispersion technology. These aqueous microgels have very good stability with low viscosity at high shear rates.
One of the main applications for these aqueous microgels produced by ICI is in waterborne basecoats (Aquabase) for use as clearcoat/basecoat finishes in the automotive industry.