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Styrene Wax
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Get a Complete Cure for Polyester Resins
Add Styrene Wax to non-waxed polyester resin and gel coat to prevent the prolonged tackiness associated with thin sections of polyesters in your composite.
This Styrene Wax is a 5% paraffin dissolved in styrene. When paraffin is added to resin, the wax will rise to the surface and protect the curing resin from the inhibiting action of the air. Once the resin is fully cured, it must be sanded off before any additional applications. Any paraffin on the surface will prevent adhesion of further coats.
What Is #71 Styrene Wax?
#71 Styrene Wax is an air-inhibiting additive for non-waxed polyester resin and gel coat. It is 5% paraffin dissolved in styrene: when added to resin, the wax rises to the surface during cure and seals it from air contact, which allows the resin to cure tack free where it is exposed to air.
Why Choose #71 Styrene Wax?
Non-waxed polyester resins stay tacky on the surface when cured in contact with air. That tack is intentional in laminating resins because it promotes interlaminar bonding between layers, but for repairs, surface coats, and single-layer applications where a tack-free cure is needed, #71 Styrene Wax is the solution. Adding it to the final coat seals the surface and allows a complete, tack-free cure without sanding or applying PVA.
What Are the Best Applications for #71 Styrene Wax?
#71 Styrene Wax is best used in the final coat of a polyester resin or gel coat repair or surface application where a tack-free, sandable cure is needed and no additional laminate layers will be applied over it. It is also used in below-the-waterline marine repairs when blended with Duratec Clear Hi-Gloss Additive to maximize hardness.
How Should #71 Styrene Wax Be Used for Best Results?
#71 Styrene Wax is added to the resin or gel coat just before the final application. Add only to the last coat, as wax will inhibit bonding between laminate layers if used on intermediate coats. Follow the product guidelines for loading percentage.
Technical Specifications
Type: Air-inhibiting wax additive (5% paraffin in styrene) for non-waxed polyester resin and gel coat
Use: Add to final coat to achieve tack-free air cure
Available Sizes and SKUs
Refer to product page for current sizes and SKUs.
Mix #71 at 5% for thin coatings—approximately one to two tablespoons for every pint of resin. When performing repairs below the water line, it can be used with #1040 Hi-Gloss Additive.
Adding styrene wax to non-waxed polyester resin and gel coat can help prevent prolonged tackiness and improve the surface cure of the composite. Here is how it can be done:
- Fibre Glast's styrene wax: Our styrene wax is specifically designed for non-waxed polyester resin and gel coat applications.
- Mix the styrene wax: Follow the instructions to determine the appropriate amount of styrene wax to add to the resin and gel coat. Typically, a small percentage of wax (usually around 2-5% by weight) is added, but the exact amount may vary based on the specific product and desired results.
- Thoroughly mix the components: Add the styrene wax to the non-waxed polyester resin or gel coat and mix thoroughly to ensure proper dispersion. Use a mechanical mixer or stir the components vigorously to achieve a homogeneous mixture. On larger applications you might have to mix ever so often.
- Application: Apply the resin or gel coat with the added styrene wax as usual, following the standard techniques and processes for your specific application.
- Cure the composite: Allow the composite to cure under the recommended temperature and curing conditions. The addition of styrene wax should help promote a more complete and thorough curing process, reducing the tackiness and improving the surface finish.
Adding styrene wax to non-waxed polyester resin and gel coat can help create a smoother and more cured surface, reducing the need for post-cure treatments or sanding to achieve the desired finish.
Always refer to the guidelines and recommendations for the proper use and dosage of styrene wax.
Every product Fibre Glast sells is First Quality Guaranteed, so you can cure polyester resin and gel coat tack free with confidence.
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WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
