FEATURE “Marine” Gelcoat a dramatic improvement was achieved. In addition to the improved repair characteristics and resistance to fading, this new coating technology offers a number of other benefits including enhanced application properties and excellent weathering resistance. The materials are applied with conventional spray equipment and are MACT-compliant. The photo below (figure 5) shows the quality of finish that can be achieved. Boatbuilders and their customers will be amazed with the mirror finish of this new technology but also by the lack of fibre print through. g…/… Imedge® polymer coating and polymer barrier technologies Fig. 3: Impact testing The result is a solution that not only meets the crack resistance and weathering expectations of boat builders, but also has a potential for greater productivity, with minimum back-side tack in 30-45 minutes (PCT 600), fast curing properties (PBT 200) and excellent interlaminar adhesion to ortho and DCPD resins. A revolution already on the market! Deeply coloured gelcoat The PCT 100 Series was developed to address perceived gelcoat deficiencies in the performance of deep, dark colours. This challenge required fundamental changes in chemistry and formulation. Marine manufacturers also indicated that the coating should retain its colour when exposed to water, so that it could be used in applications below the water line. As shown by the results of the 100-hour boil test (figure 4), Fig. 5: A hull like a mirror! Outlook The Imedge® range of products was developed following detailed discussion with key marine processors. Their requirements in terms of reduced cracking, fade-resistant dark colours and mirror finish from the basis of the new PCT/PBT products. Fig. 4: Boil test (100 hours). Right side: PCT 100 Series. Left side: Iso Gelcoat More information: www.crayvalley.com www.ccponline.com JEC Composites Magazine / No43 September 2008http://www.crayvalley.com http://www.ccponline.com http://www.cel.eu http://www.cel.eu