ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Optimization of hollow glass microspheres for enhanced thermal insulation and weather resistance in acrylic coatings

Wentong Sun, Yiwen Sun, Xinru Zhang, Rui Li, Zhaoxiang Wang, and Jingjie Han

Institute of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China

E-mail: hjj0812@163.com

Received: 3 July 2025  Accepted: 24 October 2025

Abstract:

Amid growing demand for low-carbon, eco-friendly solutions, traditional insulation materials face limitations due to flammability, high water absorption, and corrosion. This study developed a single-component water-based thermal insulation coating with low water absorption. Through optimization of film-forming matrices, thermal insulation fillers, and rheological additives, the coating achieved balanced thermal resistance, mechanical performance, and stability. This study developed a thermal insulation coating using pure acrylic XL-5038 as the matrix, optimized with Particle size and content of hollow glass microspheres. The formulation achieved balanced enhancement in thermal conductivity, adhesion to carbon steel, and flexibility. Comprehensive evaluations were conducted on the optimized coating, including water absorption, thermal insulation performance, chemical resistance, and weathering resistance. The research establishes an environmentally sound, safe, and easy-to-apply energy-saving thermal insulation solution suitable for buildings and industrial equipment.

Keywords: Water-based thermal insulation coating; Hollow glass microspheres; Weathering resistance; Low water absorption; Thermal insulation performance

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-04475-w

Chemical Papers 80 (2) 1627–1639 (2026)