Accelerators
Accelerators are needed to cure polyester and vinyl ester resins at room temperature. Some accelerators can be used to additionally promote (boost) the curing reaction of the resin. Romar-Voss Composites' product range includes the accelerators listed below, each with its specific properties.
Note: accelerators should under no circumstances be mixed in pure form with a catalyst (peroxide), as this creates a very violent (exothermic) reaction.
Cobalt accelerator
1% / 6%-ish solution of cobalt octoate
Standard accelerator for polyester and vinyl ester resins
Provides good curing when combined with MEKP, AAP and CHP catalysts (from 15°C)
Pergaquick A2 X
Dimethylaniline (DMA)
10%, solution in TXIB
When combined with a BPO paste or powder, provides medium gel time, but very fast curing of unsaturated polyester resins
Less sensitive to moisture
Cures well at lower temperatures
Acts as a promoter in a cobalt pre-accelerated system
Pergaquick A200
Dimethylaniline (DMA)
99%, liquid
Provides a longer gel time when combined with a BPO paste or powder, but very fast curing of unsaturated polyester resins
Less moisture-sensitive
Cures well at lower temperatures
Can only be used when accelerating large volumes of resin
Works as a promoter in a cobalt-pre-accelerated system
Pergaquick A3 X
Diethylaniline (DEA)
10% solution in TXIB
Provides a longer gel time (compared to A2 X and A200) when combined with BPO paste or powder, but good curing of unsaturated polyester resins
Acts a promoter in a cobalt-pre-accelerated system
Pergaquick C24 AX
Mixture of Cobalt and Dimethylaniline (DMA)
12% solution in TXIB
Provides faster curing compared to 100% cobalt-pre-accelerated resins
DMA acts as a promoter