Aluminum Hydroxide, commonly known as ATH (Al(OH)₃), is widely used as a multifunctional additive in modern coating systems. With increasing environmental and fire safety regulations across the construction and industrial sectors, coating manufacturers are seeking halogen-free, low-smoke, and non-toxic solutions. ATH has become an ideal choice because it combines flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and excellent filler performance in a single material.

ATH works through a physical and chemical mechanism. When exposed to high temperatures, typically above 200°C, Aluminum Hydroxide decomposes endothermically and releases chemically bound water molecules. This reaction absorbs heat from the surrounding coating film, lowers surface temperature, and slows down the combustion process. At the same time, the released water vapor dilutes flammable gases, while the remaining aluminum oxide forms a protective barrier layer on the coating surface. This protective layer helps isolate oxygen and reduces flame propagation, significantly improving fire resistance.

In architectural coatings, ATH is commonly used in fire-retardant wall paints, steel structure coatings, and protective decorative coatings. It improves fire classification performance and reduces smoke density during a fire event, which is particularly important for public buildings such as hospitals, schools, airports, and commercial centers. Because ATH does not contain halogens, it does not produce corrosive or toxic gases, making it a safer option for indoor environments.

ATH also plays an important role in industrial and protective coatings. Due to its high whiteness and fine particle size distribution, it enhances opacity and surface smoothness while maintaining good dispersion within resin systems such as acrylic, epoxy, polyester, and polyurethane coatings. It contributes to better rheological control, prevents pigment settling, and improves coating stability during storage.

In addition to flame retardancy, ATH can enhance the mechanical properties of coatings. The inorganic particles improve abrasion resistance, scratch resistance, and durability of the coating film. It also increases weather resistance by improving UV stability and reducing thermal degradation. As a result, coatings containing ATH show longer service life and lower maintenance requirements, which is highly valued in outdoor applications.

Another advantage of ATH is its environmental friendliness. It is non-toxic, odorless, and compliant with many international environmental standards. Compared with traditional flame retardants, ATH provides a cost-effective solution while meeting modern sustainability expectations. It allows coating manufacturers to develop safer products without sacrificing performance or appearance.

With customizable particle sizes and surface treatments, Aluminum Hydroxide can be tailored to different coating formulations and processing conditions. It is suitable for water-based coatings as well as solvent-based systems, providing formulation flexibility for manufacturers worldwide.

Thanks to its combination of safety, performance, and economic efficiency, Aluminum Hydroxide has become a preferred additive for fire-retardant and functional coatings, supporting the development of safer and more environmentally responsible coating technologies.