Coalescing agents/ film formers are used in dispersion paints for optimizing the film formation process of the polymeric binder particles. Coalescing agents typically reduce the minimal formation temperature and as a consequence, optimize film coherence and properties such as scrub resistance, mechanical properties as well as appearance.

Coalescing agents function as temporary plasticizers for the polymer particle and thereby reduce the MFFT.

Coalescing agents typically demonstrate one or more of the following effects:

1.Lowering Tg of the polymer
2.Reduction of polymer particle surface area
3.Increase in capillary forces by controlled evaporation of water
4.Reduction repulsive forces between polymer particles