Vinyl Ester Gelcoat (Chemical Resistant)
Key Features
- Vinyl ester base for maximum chemical permeation resistance
- Resistant to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents across wide concentration ranges
- High Barcol hardness (45–55) for hard, durable liner surface
- Pre-accelerated with Co + DMA for reliable cure
- Chemical resistance test data available for common aggressive media
This vinyl ester gelcoat is formulated on a bisphenol A epoxy vinyl ester resin base to provide the highest level of chemical resistance available in a gelcoat system. It is the standard choice for chemical process equipment, tank linings, scrubbers, ducts, pipe work, and any FRP structure exposed to corrosive chemicals, acids, alkalis, or solvents. The vinyl ester backbone offers significantly superior resistance to chemical permeation compared to polyester gelcoats, protecting the structural laminate from chemical attack. The formulation is compatible with MEKP catalysis at 1–2% and is pre-accelerated with cobalt and dimethyl aniline (DMA) for reliable cure across a range of ambient temperatures. Gel time at 20°C and 1.5% MEKP is 20–35 minutes. Barcol hardness after full cure reaches 45–55. The gelcoat may be supplied unpigmented (light amber) or pigmented in standard gray or white. Due to the vinyl ester resin base, styrene content is approximately 30–40%. Chemical resistance testing data is available for common aggressive media including 10–98% sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and various organic solvents. Applications include chemical storage tanks, scrubber linings, FRP piping, and secondary containment structures.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light amber to gray/white (pigmented) thixotropic paste |
| Resin Base | Bisphenol A Vinyl Ester |
| Shelf Life | 6 months at 15–20°C |
| Barcol Hardness (post-cure) | 45–55 |
| Gel Time (20°C, 1.5% MEKP) | 20–35 min |
| Film Thickness (recommended) | 0.5–0.8 mm |
| H₂SO₄ Resistance (10%, 30 days) | ≤ 5% weight gain |
| Viscosity (23°C, Brookfield RVT #5 @ 10 rpm) | 5,000–9,000 mPa·s |
Applications
FAQ
Vinyl ester gelcoat provides substantially better resistance to chemical permeation than isophthalic polyester gelcoat. The methacrylate ester linkages in the vinyl ester network are inherently more hydrolytically stable and less susceptible to chemical attack than polyester ester bonds. For aggressive environments such as concentrated sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, or sodium hydroxide above 25%, vinyl ester gelcoat is the only polyester-family option that provides adequate protection. ISO gelcoat should be reserved for mild chemical and marine environments.
Direct Contact
💬WhatsApp +86 156 3910 0440Telegram +86 156 3910 0440✉️[email protected]Reply within 24 hours