ETHOFLEX-ER

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EthoFlex™ ER is an additive for epoxy coatings that can be applied with either the epoxy or the hardener and is compatible with any solvent. While other additives can require extensive preparation or expensive application equipment, EthoFlex™ ER is easy to add and can lower your performance costs by allowing fewer and thinner coats. As scientists we can appreciate the most elegant solution, and EthoFlex™ ER is just that- one ingredient taking the place of many; a simple preparation taking the place of many complex ones.

How exactly does it stand up in practice? Take a look:

All tests were made with EPON 828, a liquid epoxy resin, the additive, and 10% benzyl alcohol or other solvent. The hardener used was 4:1 cycloaliphatic amine adduct (XTA 801 from Huntsman) and the hardener to epoxy ratio is 0.8. Additive percentage was tested at 15% and 30% of the total formulation.

CORROSION

Problems with corrosion? Not after the addition of EthoFlex™ ER:

On these R-35 panels tested in a B117 salt fog chamber, both the field rust and scribe creep were SIGNIFICANTLY reduced. If you don’t believe the results, see if you can tell which is which by looking at the pictures:

FLEXIBILITY ENHANCEMENT

At even 15% additive, the results in the ASTM mandrel bend test dramatically improved, at 1/8 in. as opposed to the 1.5 in. bend in the control.

IMPACT RESISTANCE

Impact resistance is another area where products treated with EthoFlex™ ER show a marked performance boost. Using ASTM D2794-93, here were the results:

GLOSS

Want your epoxy to be glossy? EthoFlex™ ER is your choice again!

POTLIFE

The control shows a typical curve for the epoxy.

CURE TIME

EthoFlex™ ER also performs when it comes to improving cure times.

For benzyl alcohol epoxy systems, there is not a significant difference in cure time. However, keep in mind that the pot life was significantly improved.

When using MEK as the solvent, cure time is clearly improved.