Overview

Mergal® 186 is a high-performance, formaldehyde-free in-can preservative developed by Troy Corporation (now part of Arxada), designed to provide broad-spectrum microbial protection in water-based systems. Utilizing a synergistic combination of isothiazolinones, including methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT), it delivers powerful antibacterial and antifungal activity at low use levels. Mergal® 186 is especially effective in challenging aqueous formulations and exhibits excellent compatibility with surfactants, thickeners, and emulsifiers. Its robust efficacy, stability over a wide pH range, and suitability for industrial applications make it ideal for use in paints, adhesives, and other polymer dispersions.

Benefits

• Formaldehyde-Free – Complies with low-toxicity and eco-label requirements

• Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Protection – Active against bacteria, yeast, and mold

• Low Use-Level Efficacy – Reduces overall cost of preservation

• Excellent pH Stability – Stable performance from pH 4 to 9

• High Compatibility – Does not interfere with other formulation components

• Good Thermal Stability – Maintains effectiveness during production and storage

Applications

• Water-Based Paints & Coatings – Preserves interior and exterior emulsions from microbial degradation

• Adhesives & Sealants – Protects aqueous adhesive formulations such as PVA and acrylic dispersions

• Printing Inks – Prevents microbial contamination in waterborne ink systems

• Construction Chemicals – Effective in grouts, plasters, and cement-based admixtures

• Polymer Dispersions – Suitable for preserving PVAc, styrene-acrylic, and acrylic emulsions

• Household & Industrial Cleaners – Maintains microbial stability in detergent and cleaner formulations

Properties Table