What is generally used to determine the level of sheen or gloss in paints?

The level of sheen or gloss in paints is primarily influenced by the binders present in the formulation. Binders are the film-forming components that give the paint its structure and durability. They also play a crucial role in determining the final appearance of the paint, which includes its gloss levels. Different types of binders can result in varying degrees of sheen, with some providing a high gloss and others producing a matte finish.

While pigments contribute to the color of the paint, they do not affect the sheen directly. Solvents are used to dissolve or disperse the binders and pigments, impacting the viscosity and application properties rather than the sheen. Additives can modify certain characteristics of the paint, such as drying time or mildew resistance, but they typically do not determine the gloss level as fundamentally as binders do.

Thus, the binders are the key components that directly affect the sheen or gloss levels in paint formulations.