Increasing Time Until Condensation: Advanced Applications of 3M™ Glass Bubbles (Part 2)

Lab-validated 3M™ Glass Bubbles S22 performance: up to 45 minutes extended condensation delay

Explore real test results, optimized S22 formulations, and why lower dry-film density extends condensation resistance.

Moisture control remains one of the most persistent challenges in architectural coatings. While introductory (Part 1) anti-condensation paints offer basic moisture-management capabilities, advanced performance requires deeper engineering of thermal conductivity, dry-film density, and CPVC balance.

This second part explores the scientific mechanisms behind condensation delay, using validated laboratory data from 3M™ technical studies and optimized test formulations.

This second part explores the scientific mechanisms behind condensation delay using validated laboratory data from 3M™ technical studies and optimized test formulations.

If you haven't read Part 1 yet, start there for the fundamentals.

Related 3M™ Glass Bubbles Articles

Understanding the Science Behind Condensation Formation

Condensation occurs when surface temperatures fall below the dew point.

The 3M™ technical paper shows that excessive condensation leads to persistent dampness, mold, and long-term degradation of substrates. Improving thermal insulation at the paint-film level is the most direct way to raise surface temperature and extend condensation time.

Thermal Conductivity: The Core Principle Behind Anti-Condensation Performance

A coating’s thermal behavior is defined by:

Thermal conductivity (K-value)
Dry-film density

The technical study confirms:

Lower K-value → warmer surface → longer time until condensation.

K-Values of Glass Bubbles vs Standard Fillers

Table 1, 3M Technical Paper

Dry-Film Density: A Critical Performance Driver

The study evaluated multiple commercial anti-condensation paints vs. a standard wall/ceiling paint.

(See Table 2, 3M Technical Paper)

Key findings:

Standard wall paint: 24 min
Commercial anti-condensation paints: 20–44 min
Best commercial product (#5): 44 min, dry-film density 0.79 g/cc
Higher density = lower condensation resistance

The relationship was nearly linear:

Lower dry-film density = longer condensation delay.

This is the fundamental reason 3M™ Glass Bubbles outperform traditional fillers.

Test Method (Scientific Setup)

The condensation performance was measured using 3M’s controlled chamber method:

High-humidity chamber set at 22°C (dew point 19–20°C)
Cold chamber at 3°C
Painted aluminum panels placed between the chambers
Measured parameter: Time until first drop of condensation forms

This test method provides accurate, repeatable performance differentiation.

Optimized Anti-Condensation Formulation with 3M™ Glass Bubbles S22

(Table 3, 3M Technical Paper)

Optimized S22 formula properties:

Wet density: 0.97 g/cc
Dry density: 0.95 g/cc
PVC: 60%
Film below CPVC: 1.16 ratio
Glass Bubbles loading: 11 wt% / 50 vol%
Condensation time: 45 minutes

This value surpasses several market products tested, making it one of the highest-performing anti-condensation paints in the study.

Why S22 Glass Bubbles Deliver Superior Performance

✔Low thermal conductivity (0.071 W/m·K) → reduced heat loss

✔ Low dry-film density → longer condensation delay

✔ Formulation below CPVC → non-porous, durable film

✔ Absence of CaCO₃ → avoids thermal bridging

These combined advantages create one of the most effective moisture-control coating systems available.

Key Applications

High-humidity interiors
Bathrooms & kitchens
Basements & semi-underground room
Garages & storage spaces
Cold surfaces prone to dampness
Residential and commercial buildings requiring enhanced moisture control

Request the Technical Paper & Optimized Formula

You can access the full formulation, including component ratios and lab methodology, through our technical request form.

Conclusion

3M™ Glass Bubbles significantly enhance anti-condensation coatings by lowering thermal conductivity, reducing dry-film density, and enabling durable, closed-film structures.

The optimized S22 formulation demonstrates up to 45 minutes of condensation resistance under lab-validated conditions.

Interested in engineering high-performance anti-condensation coatings?

Request a sample or formulation consultation today.