We all know time is valuable, but what is the right balance between time and quality? What are we willing to sacrifice to speed up our process?
These may seem like obvious questions, but behind them lies a whole world of researchers who are not sleeping well at night.
In this paper, we will review the concept of epoxy accelerators and investigate the subject through experimental data.
About ddchem
ddchem is an Italian family-owned specialty chemical manufacturer focused on epoxy resins, curing agents and formulated systems for coatings, construction and industrial applications. With strong formulation expertise and a focus on regulatory-driven innovation, ddchem develops solutions that help formulators transition to safer and future-proof technologies.
Experimental Data Section
In the field of epoxy systems, the word “accelerate” refers to substances to be added to the curing agent that improve the crosslinking reaction pace of the system during the thermoset network formation. However, there are different kinds of accelerators and curing agents. The most commonly used are the amine and polyamidoamine-based, due to the nucleophilicity of nitrogen that reacts and opens the epoxide ring, making a covalent bond.
Our most important challenge was to develop a range of clear, odourless accelerators with high performance. One of our flagship products is ITAMINE M153, which combines the acceleration effects of tertiary amines and hydroxyls. We also present ITAMINE K230 and ITAMINE M154, the latest additions to our range.
ITAMINE K230 | ITAMINE M153 | ITAMINE M154 |
Analysis | Method | Typical Value | Analysis | Method | Typical Value | Analysis | Method | Typical Value |
| Amine number | DIN 16945 | 616 mgKOH/g | Amine number | DIN 16945 | 802 mgKOH/g | Amine number | DIN 16945 | 963 mgKOH/g |
| Viscosity 25°C | UNI EN
12092:2003 | 200 mPa*s | Viscosity 25°C | UNI EN
12092:2003 | 35 mPa*s | Viscosity 25°C | UNI EN
12092:2003 | 47 mPa*s |
| Gardner Colour | UNI EN ISO
4630-2:2005 | 1,5 | Gardner Colour | UNI EN ISO
4630-2:2005 | 0,2 | Gardner Colour | UNI EN ISO
4630-2:2005 | 0,2 |
| AHEW | Calculated | N/D | AHEW | Calculated | 38 g/eq | AHEW | Calculated | 66 g/eq |
| | | | | | | | | |
To evaluate the quality of each accelerator, our Research and Development laboratory carried out a series of tests. Shore D Hardening Development at 13 °C and 23 °C; Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) at 13 °C, 23 °C, and Maximum Mechanical Strength Through Stretching Test Measurements.
Come and discover the results and extraordinary performance for yourself. We look forward to seeing you at ddchem booth 1775 from 5th to 7th May at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Chemistry you can trust.