Selecting the best catalyst
A catalyst determines many of the final properties of a STYCAST system. It's selection is as important as that of the resin as it has a significant influence on final cured hardness, mixed viscosity, temperature capabilities and physical properties.
Understanding viscosity
Viscosity is the measure of the internal resistance of friction when a material moves against itself. It is typically measured using a rotating spindle instrument (viscometer). The amount of force required to turn the spindle (torque) at a selected speed (rpm) is measured. A simple calculation converts this internal resistance to viscosity. Thicker materials equates to higher torque values, hence, higher viscosities.
A catalyst determines many of the final properties of a STYCAST system. It's selection is as important as that of the resin as it has a significant influence on final cured hardness, mixed viscosity, temperature capabilities and physical properties.
Understanding viscosity
Viscosity is the measure of the internal resistance of friction when a material moves against itself. It is typically measured using a rotating spindle instrument (viscometer). The amount of force required to turn the spindle (torque) at a selected speed (rpm) is measured. A simple calculation converts this internal resistance to viscosity. Thicker materials equates to higher torque values, hence, higher viscosities.
Item # |
Cure Temp |
Mix Ratio |
Viscosity at 25 ºC |
Working Life (100 g cP at 25 ºC) |
Specific Gravity |
Temperature Range of Use |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9 | N/A Room | N/A Amber | N/A 80–105 cps | N/A 45 min | N/A 1.00 | N/A –40 to 130 ºC |
15 | N/A Room | N/A Amber/Black | N/A 25000 cps | N/A 2 h | N/A 0.97 | N/A –40 to 90 ºC |
23LV | N/A Room | N/A Clear to amber | N/A 20–30 cps | N/A 1 h | N/A 1.01 | N/A –65 to 105 ºC |
11 | N/A Elevated | N/A Dark Brown | N/A 35–60 cps | N/A > 4 h | N/A 1.10 | N/A –55 to 155 ºC |
17M-1 | N/A Elevated | N/A Tan | N/A Slurry | N/A 24 h | N/A 1.40 | N/A –20 to 230 ºC |