ICT Fluoropolymers

ICT fluoropolymers encompass Thetaguard™ and Thetapel™, two high-performance additives manufactured by Innovative Chemical Technologies (ICT). These fluorinated polymers are used in formulations such as paints, coatings, and sealers due to the superior repellency properties they provide to an array of staining and soiling materials. Thetaguard™ and Thetapel™ comply with the U.S. EPA 2010/15 PFOA Stewardship Program, as they are based on short-chain fluorochemical technology. This makes them an ideal replacement for repellent additives that have been restricted or banned due to PFAS regulations. 

Thetaguard™ polymers are water-dispersible additives that provide repellency to dirt, soil, and oil. Typical applications range from latex paints to industrial and automotive coatings to hard surface sealers. Grades such as Thetaguard™ FA-1000 provide a high degree of surface-tension reduction in addition to providing repellency, suiting them for coating applications. Grades such as Thetaguard™ HS-3012 and HS-3035, which are partially fluorinated polymers, provide vapor permeability and excellent stain protection with ambient curing techniques without altering the appearance of substrates. Thus, these are recommended for hard surface penetrating sealers. 

Thetapel™ polymers are solvent-soluble fluorinated acrylic polymers dissolved in odorless mineral spirits. These products are used in a variety of sealer and repellent formulations designed to provide water, oil, and stain resistance. Thetapel™ also helps reduce surface tension at very low concentrations and improve the cleanability of surfaces it is applied to. Examples of applications include apparel, upholstery fabric, and leather repellents. Thetapel™ may also be used as an additive in solvent-based coatings and cleaners and some waxes and polishes. 

To learn more about these products, continue reading below to explore Thetaguard™ and Thetapel™ grades. 

Poor repellency to water, oil, or stains 
Low surface tension of solvent-based formulations 
Impermeability of moisture through sealer formulations 
Altered appearance of substrates with sealers applied