WACKER^® CATALYST T 81

WACKER^® CATALYST T 81 is a universal crosslinker component used as standard curing agent for polycondensation curing base compounds of the  ELASTOSIL^®  product series. The shear-thinning paste provides excellent adhesion properties and improves oil resistance.

The crosslinking reaction of condensation curing RTV-2 silicones is relatively robust in regard to curing inhibition. Amine containing materials, urethanes, organic compounds with sulfur-containing groups, organometallic compounds, plasticizers, lubricants, oils and grease usually do not impair the curing process itself. Nevertheless, for optimum adhesion results all substrates used should be clean, dry and free from grease, waxes, dust or other surface contaminations.

Mixing and curing:

To ensure uniform curing both components have to be thoroughly mixed, either manually or by automatic metering lines equipped with static or dynamic mixing devices. The standard mixing ratio is 10:1 by weight. As WACKER^® CATALYST T 81 can be used for a broad variety of polycondensation base components with may have different specific densities, a general valid mixing ratio cannot be defined. Instead, the processing properties may be adjusted by variation of the WACKER^® CATALYST T 81 content.

Potlife and curing speed can be modified within limits by adjusting the ratio of base compound to curing agent. Varying the mixing ratio between 8:1 and 12:1 usually has a small effect on the properties of the cured rubber. However, if the mixing ratio differs substantially from the recommended scope, preliminary tests should be carried out to check the cured material’s suitability. General information about pot life and resulting curing times is given in the table "Catalyzed".

Moreover curing speed can be slightly accelerated by raising the temperature. Heating, however, must not exceed 60 °C before curing is completed.

After completion of the vulcanization process the product may continuously be exposed to constantly changing climatic conditions, UV radiation and high temperature without damage. WACKER^® CATALYST T 81 usually provides good primerless adhesion to many substrates

Removal:

If removal of silicone rubber from machines or dispensing equipment is necessary, white spirit or similar nonpolar solvents are recommended. However, cleaning ideally should take place before the silicone is fully vulcanized. Cured silicone rubber needs to be removed mechanically, if necessary in combination with a swelling agent (solvent).

Detailed information about processing RTV-2 silicones is given in our brochure “ROOM TEMPERATURE VULCANIZING (RTV) SILICONES - MATERIAL AND PROCESSING GUIDELINES”. We recommend running preliminary tests to optimize conditions for the particular application.