Accelerator

Accelerators and Catalysts give precise control over the curing behaviour of  unsaturated polyester and vinylester systems. These additives are optimised to work  with esins and gelcoats, helping fabricators tune gel time and through–cure across a  wide range of ambient conditions and processes.

• Controlled Reactivity Matching the right accelerator–catalyst package to  the resin system enables predictable pot life, consistent exotherm and complete cure,  even in thick or complex laminates. This control reduces rejects caused by under–cure,  print–through and excessive shrinkage, while supporting repeatable mechanical  properties in production. 
• Process–Specific Formulations Formulations are available for hand  lay–up, spray–up, pultrusion, RTM and infusion systems, including highly filled and  fire–retardant materials used in railway applications. By tuning cure profile to process  speed and mould temperature, manufacturers can improve cycle time without  compromising safety margins or final part quality. 
• Vinyl Alcohol (PVA) and speciality additives enhance surface quality, processing  stability and long–term performance of composite parts. These materials are  designed to integrate seamlessly into existing resin systems, oDering formulators  and fabricators additional levers to fine–tune their products.
• PVA as a Processing Aid PVA solutions are widely used as sacrificial  film–forming agents that create an easy–release barrier over mould surfaces or gelcoat  layers. This temporary barrier helps prevent chemical bonding between resin and tool,  improving de–moulding on new, complex or sensitive moulds and reducing the risk of  surface defects. 
• Formulation Benefits Vinyl alcohol–based materials and other additives  can contribute to improved emulsification, pigment dispersion and viscosity control in  resin formulations. Used correctly, they support more homogeneous systems, better  wet–out and enhanced overall consistency of the finished laminate or coating. 
• Performance Additives Complementary additives are available to adjust  thixotropy, fire performance, UV stability and surface appearance in combination with  resins and gelcoats. This enables tailored solutions for marine, building, transportation  and industrial customers who need targeted improvements without a complete  reformulation

Accelerators are solutions of metal salts such as cobalt octoate with a concentration between 1 and 12% cobalt metal content, where the cobalt ions react with the organic peroxide in a redox reaction. Accelerators and catalysts give precise control over the curing behaviour of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester systems, helping fabricators tune gel time and through-cure across a wide range of ambient conditions and processes.​