Anti-tannin additives for wood in water-based systems

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Anti-tannin additives for wood in water-based systems

Wednesday, 6 May, 2026

Limitations of water-based systems

Water-based coatings present certain inherent functional limitations compared to solvent-based systems, particularly when applied to wood substrates.
The presence of water-soluble chromophoric compounds –especially naturally occurring tannins in wood– can lead to their dissolution and subsequent migration through the coating film during film formation or after drying. This phenomenon typically appears as staining, colour changes and a deterioration in the aesthetic performance of the coating system.
In addition, water-based formulations are more sensitive to the migration of exogenous contaminants such as fire or smoke residues, nicotine, inks, pen marks, and may also exhibit adhesion defects on lignocellulosic substrates.

Technical solution
VIDAMAX® 3TB anti-stain agents are liquid additives designed for direct incorporation into water-based paint formulations. Their mode of action is based on controlled chemical interaction with water-soluble tannins, resulting in the formation of insoluble, non-diffusible and chemically stable complexes that prevent migration to the surface of the coating film.

Recommended use
The incorporation of VIDAMAX® 3TB is recommended to improve resistance to tannin bleed and staining in water-based coatings applied to wood substrates.
By blocking tannin migration, the final coating retains a flawless appearance, preventing surface staining caused by tannin exudation.
This product is supplied as a ready-to-use liquid preparation, specifically formulated to enhance the stain resistance of water-based coatings without significantly affecting the rheological, application or aesthetic properties of the final system.

LABEMA® offers two additives:

VIDAMAX® 3TB1

  • Aqueous solution of stabilised metal salts containing zinc
  • Tannin-blocking additive for water-based systems

VIDAMAX® 3TBfree

  • Stabilised metal salt in aqueous solution
  • Zinc-free tannin-blocking additive for water-based systems
     


 

Applications – dosage

  • For woods with higher tannin content, it is recommended to apply a primer coat containing VIDAMAX® 3TB1 or 3TBfree, acting as a sealing layer, prior to the topcoat.
  • VIDAMAX® 3TB1 and 3TBfree are compatible with aqueous-phase paints such as acrylic, styrene-acrylic and polyurethane dispersion systems. A compatibility test with the formulation is recommended.
  • VIDAMAX® 3TB1 and 3TBfree are also recommended for blocking the migration of moisture stains and nicotine.
  • Typical dosage: 1%–3% by weight of the total formulation.

Mixing recommendations
Preferably add at the final stage of formulation, ensuring thorough mixing.

Key benefits

  • Liquid, colourless and highly versatile
  • Easy to use and incorporate
  • Recommended for use in both primer and topcoat for maximum effectiveness

At Comindex –part of IMPAG Group– we can support you throughout your process. Simply contact our team of technical sales advisors.

 

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