
K-1 Hollow Glass Microspheres are ultra-lightweight, thin-walled, closed-cell (hermetic) spherical glass particles engineered to deliver maximum weight reduction (lightweighting) in a wide range of construction, polymer, composite and specialty material applications. Manufactured from soda-lime borosilicate glass, K-1 microspheres combine exceptionally low true (particle) density with narrow particle size distribution (PSD), enabling significant density reduction while maintaining rheological stability and formulation robustness.
Owing to their high sphericity and isotropic morphology, K-1 Hollow Glass Microspheres act as rheology modifiers that improve powder flowability, reduce apparent viscosity, and minimize yield stress build-up, allowing higher volumetric filler loading versus conventional mineral fillers. They are chemically inert, non-combustible, and exhibit high hydrolytic/alkaline resistance, making them broadly compatible with cementitious matrices, thermoset and thermoplastic resins, coatings, adhesives, and sealants. K-1 is particularly suited for systems where extreme density reduction, thermal insulation (lower effective thermal conductivity), and processing efficiency (improved mixing, pumping, and application) are critical.
Used in automotive and industrial polyester putties to achieve significant weight reduction, low shrinkage, easy sanding and smooth surface finish while maintaining mechanical strength.
Ideal for thermal barrier and insulating coatings, where the hollow structure lowers thermal conductivity, improves energy efficiency and reduces coating density.
Suitable for structural and non-structural adhesives, providing volume build, controlled viscosity, improved spreadability and reduced formulation weight.
Used in PU, MS polymer, silicone and hybrid sealants to enhance gap filling, sag resistance, dimensional stability and lightweighting without compromising adhesion.
Incorporated into sandable coatings, primers and surface fillers to improve thickness build, sanding ease, surface smoothness and application efficiency.
Used in formulations requiring controlled viscosity and thixotropy, supporting stable gel formation while minimizing weight addition.
Widely used in bulk emulsion explosives and ANFO formulations for density control, improved pumpability, stable explosive emulsions and optimized energy distribution during blasting operations.
Applied in lightweight concrete, grouts, mortars and repair compounds to reduce dead load, improve workability and enhance thermal insulation.
Used in automotive underbody plastisols to reduce weight, improve thickness build, stone-chip resistance and NVH performance.
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White, free-flowing powder |
| True Density | ~0.125 g/cc |
| Crush Strength (Isostatic) | ~250 psi |
| Average Particle Size (D50) | ~65 µm |
| Top Cut Particle Size | ~120 µm |
| Chemical Composition | Soda-lime borosilicate glass |
| Shape | Hollow spherical |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Combustibility | Non-combustible |
K-1 Hollow Glass Microspheres are considered non-hazardous under normal industrial handling conditions. Avoid generating excessive airborne dust. Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves and dust masks during handling and processing. Always refer to the latest Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety information.
Store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination and moisture ingress.