What Does
Thixotropic Mean?
A thixotropic fluid is one that takes a fixed time to return to its equilibrium viscosity when subjected to abrupt changes in shear rate. In other words, the liquid becomes less viscous (thinner or flows more easily) when shaken, stirred, agitated or otherwise stressed. The fluid then recovers its original viscosity in a fixed time once the shear loads have been removed.
Corrosionpedia Explains Thixotropic
Examples of thixotropic materials include many gels and colloids, as well as common food products such as ketchup and yogurt. However, thixotropic properties are especially essential in paints and coatings. In this case, it is desirable for paints to be thixotropic because they are required to flow easily during mixing and application.
Once applied, the paints need to increase in viscosity to resist further flow (especially on vertical surfaces), thereby preventing sagging, running, cissing and other defects associated with low viscous paints.