Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 1

Introduction
Gel coat makes fiberglass reinforced products acid) resistance to water and chemicals are not of
attractive and practical. Technically, it is a surface prime importance. For years it has been one of the
coating of pigmented polyester resin which gels raw materials incorporated into polyester resins and
against the mold surface and cures with the structural is still available but is often replaced by the more
laminate. It faithfully reproduces the mold surface, durable isophthalic types of resins.
imparts color, and protects the reinforcing fibers from
external elements. In many cases, the surface Isophthalic: Reacted into the resin, isophthalic acid
treated with gel coat is the only part of the structure provides greater levels of water (acid) and chemical
that can be seen. To the user, it is simply a reinforced resistance than does orthophthalic anhydride. This is
plastic. Resins, fillers, pigments and promoters are especially important in the manufacture of boats,
carefully selected and formulated to develop the shower and bath enclosures. Greater chemical,
quality and surface appearance needed to make the weather and corrosion resistance with a higher
product durable and saleable. Customer acceptance degree of flexibility are the immediate benefits when
of the product can depend entirely upon the care and isophthalic acid replaces orthophthalic acid in the
handling of gel coat. resin.

Several key points must be considered if the gel coat Neopentyl Glycol: When the highest possible quality
surface is to perform to its capabilities: and performance levels are required, neopentyl
glycol is reacted into the isophthalic resin in the
• Gel coat make-up and realistic performance proper mole ratio. This raw material can produce
expectations. weathering and chemical resistance capabilities
• Proper equipment, suitable for the specific superior to resins formulated with other common
application. glycols.
• Skill of the spray operator: proper training and
experience. Pigments: Pigments and their quality determine both
• General spray methods. the color we see and the color integrity, which simply
• Special spray methods for specific parts means the ability of the color to resist change from
according to size and shape. exposure to various environments.
• Problems and solutions.
Extenders/Fillers: Extenders provide the gel coat
The various components of the gel coat system with proper spraying characteristics and influence the
influence the quality and working properties needed cured physical properties.
to provide the performance characteristics for the
intended end use. Thixotrope: Most of the viscosity comes from the
thixotrope. Its purpose is to hold the gel coat on a
The Resin: The basic ingredient of gel coat is the vertical surface, yet allow easy breakup for good
polyester resin system, which provides the chemical spraying properties.
composition that determines the chemical and
physical properties of the gel coat. Accelerators/Promoters: Regulate gel and cure
characteristics of the gel coat. Peroxide initiates the
Orthophthalic: Orthophthalic anhydride is used in gel coat cure. Although commonly referred to as
general purpose resins where superior (anhydride or catalysts, peroxides are initiators.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 2

Spray Equipment Selection and Operation

The quality and appearance of every part depends TYPES OF SPRAY EQUIPMENT
upon the gel coat, the type of application equipment Comparison of spray equipment types can be based
used and the skill of the operator. It is critical that on three major considerations: How the material is
each of these components be given careful delivered to the gun, how the catalyst is added and
consideration prior to application or the resulting finally, how the gel coat is atomized.
finish may be less than satisfactory. This section will
present the major type of spray equipment ADDITION OF THE CATALYST
recommended for standard gel coat applications. "Hot Pot" System
Because this guide cannot provide precise In this system, a measured amount of catalyst is
specifications for every individual application, it is stirred by hand directly into a container (pressure pot)
intended to aid generally in the selection of proper which is then sprayed from a pressure feed tank
spray equipment. The exact spray equipment and within the allowable gel time period. This is currently
settings for a particular operation will depend on the the most accurate system but uses a large quantity of
plant lay-out, production rate, configuration of the clean-up solvent and any unforeseen delays can lead
parts to be coated and the spray operator. to lost hoses and a difficult cleaning job. This system
should not be used for continuous production due to
DETERMINING NEEDS AND CONDITIONS waste and safety reasons.
Before deciding on the appropriate spray system,
attention must be given to the nature and number of Catalyst Injection System
parts to be sprayed and the location in the plant of Many Gel coat applications today use the catalyst
the spray operation. Major consideration should be injection system, especially for high production
given to the following: fabrication. It permits uninterrupted spraying. In this
system, the liquid catalyst is injected into the
• Determine all safety procedures and equipment atomizing air supply by an adjustable venturi device
necessary before beginning the operation. with a flow meter. The ball settings of the catalyst
• Allow for increased production and adaptability to flow meter are translatable into cubic centimeters or
a variety of operations grams per minute so the catalyst feed can be
• Determine time and labor involved for set-up and matched to the measured weight output of Gel coat
clean-up. per minute and ratio established. As the output of the
• Determine if parts to be sprayed are simple, gun changes, e.g., change of tip or change of pump
complex, large, small, flat or curved. pressure, the catalyst delivery rate must also be
• Determine the number of colors to be sprayed. adjusted to maintain the proper ratio and assure the
• Determine number of parts to be sprayed and scheduled performance of the gel coat in gel and
whether they will be coated at regular intervals or cure time.
at random.
• Thoroughly evaluate your maintenance program
to determine if it should be supplemented to
sufficiently protect your investment.

By a thorough analysis of the nature of the operation,

you can determine which spray equipment described
below will best meet your needs.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 3

Spray Equipment Selection and Operation (Cont.)

ATOMIZATION OF GEL COAT tends to cause porosity and rougher finish, and
Airless Spray System requires a flushing system to keep material from
Airless spraying equipment for gel coat application is hardening in the mixing head. This method is not
the most popular today. Advantages include better suitable for most gel coat operations and is,
film leveling at high delivery rates and elimination of therefore, not recommended.
blow-back when spraying in closed areas. In a typical
airless system, the gel coat never comes into direct 2. External Mix-Atomized System
contact with compressed air and is not broken up by
air. Instead, an air-activated high ratio pump (usually Stage One
33 to 1) puts the gel coat under high pressure (1000- The annular ring around the fluid nozzle tip emits
3000 psi.) by forcing it through a small orifice (.015- an envelope of pressurized air which immediately
.026 in.). The high velocity fluid impacts with ambient surrounds the fluid stream being sprayed through
air at the orifice and breaks up due to the sudden and the tip. This instant contact breaks up or coarsely
extreme pressure differential. The typical airless atomizes the gel coat with the air.
system uses the air-activated pump to feed the
nozzle which delivers the gel coat spray. A catalyst Stage Two
nozzle is located next to the fluid nozzle and delivers Two converging streams of air forced from air
a catalyst spray which mixes by implosion into the gel holes located on either side of the annular ring
coat fan. Airless systems are used primarily for intersect the fluid stream to further break it down
coating large, basically open or flat parts. resulting in a finer atomization. Two straight
contaminant holes indexed at 90 keep the stream
Air Atomized System from fanning out.
In this system, the gel coat is broken up by direct
contact with an air system pressure of 70 - 90 psi. Stage Three
The material break-up and delivery can be Right after second stage atomization, side port
accomplished by two methods. air jets are emitted from passageways within the
angular projections on the nozzle (often referred
1. Internal Mix: The gel coat and initiator to as wings, ears or horns). Catalyst is injected
combine within the spray gun head and are into the above air stream by an independent
forced through a single orifice. The internal mix catalyst injection system.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 4

Efficient Use of the Spray Gun

For the most efficient use of the gun, always make a
careful check that all parts are the proper size and Pounds of Pressure
type, and are in perfect working order before
operating. The following items can serve as a 60 lbs. 70 lbs. 80 lbs.
checklist: 1/4" Inside Hose Diameter Air Pressure Drop at Gun

Manifolds and Regulators: The CFM capacity 20' Hose 16-3/4 19-1/2 31
should be at least one and one half (1.5) times the
25' Hose 19 22-1/2 34
total capacity required by the equipment. A separate
regulator should control the atomizing air and all 50' Hose 31 34 37
gauges should be readable and in good working
condition. 5/16" Inside Hose Diameter Air Pressure Drop at Gun

20' Hose 5-1/2 6-3/4 8

Moisture and Oil Traps: In order to assure the least
amount of contamination of the Gel coat, moisture 25' Hose 6 7-1/4 8-3/4
and oil traps should be installed and drained daily
(minimum) on all air lines at the spray booth. Traps 50' Hose 11-1/2 13 14-1/2
must be installed on the lines at least 25 feet away
from the air compressor.
PLANT AIR SUPPLY
Quick Disconnects: Quick disconnects are not The plant's main air lines should be steel pipe, as
recommended for airless or high pressure systems, large in diameter as possible and designed for
and may reduce the volume of air and fluids passing compressed air.
through them. If they are used, they should be the
largest size available. Adequate compressor capacity is required to supply
enough air volume and pressure to run every piece of
Hoses: Hoses are used only for delivering air from a air powered equipment in the plant at the same time.
regulator on a main air line and fluids from the fluid Pipes should be laid out as straight, and with as few
pump to the gun. The standard hose length is 25 feet fittings, as possible. Drop lines should come off the
and should never exceed 50 feet. Hose capacity top of main air lines. Lines should slant slightly to
should match the volume delivery and pressure drain off any accumulated water. Air lines should be
demanded by the gun when the trigger is pulled. located off drop lines at least 12 inches from the end
Hoses must be capable of delivering the material at with a drain valve installed on the bottom. It is
the volume and pressure rates dictated by the gun. desirable for the molding line to have its own air
There will always be a pressure drop from one end of supply.
the hose to the other.

CAUTION: Construction materials for airless hoses

and catalysts must be compatible. Always consult
manufacturer's recommendations for proper hose.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 5

Spray Gun Maintenance

2. Make sure all air to gun and catalyst pots are
The spray gun and support equipment represent a turned off, hose connections are tight and that the
substantial dollar investment. The best method of gun is grounded. The gun should not be pointed at
protecting that investment is a planned maintenance yourself or anyone else at anytime.
program which should include a supply of spare parts
and daily maintenance checks. 3. Be sure that all mechanical parts of the gun are
in good working condition; clean and lubricate
RECOMMENDED SPARE PARTS FOR EACH GUN where necessary. Filters, screens and tips should
• Air nozzle, needle and tips be clean and air regulators backed out to zero
• Packing and gaskets pressure.
• Hoses and fittings
• Gauges 4. Once the proper tip is installed, the air should be
• Proper lubricants turned on and the air motor regulator adjusted until
good break-up is observed and no tails are present
• Filter screens
in the fan.
• Diaphragms for pressure regulators
5. A 12-inch piece of rubber hose should be placed
over the gel coat tip and sprayed into a previously
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
weighed container for 15 seconds. The material
Daily clean-up all parts with proper cleaners/solvents.
should be weighed (don't forget to subtract the
Re-lubricate where lubricant is washed away by
weight of the container) and multiplied by 4. If
cleaning. Moisture traps and compressor tanks must
weight is in grams, divide by 454. This gives you
be drained daily.
pounds per minute.
CALIBRATION
6. Air supply to gel coat spray air motor should be
Catalyst injection spray equipment must be calibrated
turned off and the gun triggered to relieve
as polyester resins require the addition of exact
remaining pressure.
amounts of catalyst for working and production
requirements in order to attain their proper physical
7. It is important to make sure the catalyst pot is full
and chemical properties. One of the most important
and in good working order. The flow rate of the
keys to successful Gel coat application is making
catalyst should be set according to manufacturer's
sure that spray equipment is operating at the proper
instructions. The ideal catalyst setting is in the
catalyst to Gel coat ratio. In order to stay within the
range of 1.5 - 2.0% MEKP.
proper working range, calibration of the spray
equipment is necessary. Calibration of any dual feed
8. Flow Rate in grams per minute X (Desired
spray gun follows the same basic procedures. Set the
Percent Catalyst) = Grams per minute of
Gel coat for proper flow rate and atomization, then
100catalyst needed. When working with diluted
adjust the catalyst for the proper delivery rate (ratio of
catalyst, a dilution factor must be included in the
catalyst to Gel coat).
calculation.
CALIBRATION PROCEDURES FOR AIRLESS
AUTOMATION
• 100 grams at 1:1 dilution contains 50 grams of
1. Before starting the calibration procedure, make
catalyst
sure that adequate safety precautions are
observed.
• 100 grams at 2:1 dilution contains 33.3 grams
of catalyst

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 6

Spray Gun Maintenance (Cont.)

• 100 grams at 3:1 dilution contains 25.0 grams gun is set for the desired delivery rate and proper
of catalyst atomization, then the catalyst delivery system is set
so that the proper amount of catalyst is delivered.
• For 100 grams of catalyst using a 1:1 dilution,
200 grams of solution are needed. 1. Make sure air supply to the equipment is clean
and free of oil, water or rust. The gun and catalyst
• For 100 grams of catalyst using a 2:1 dilution, delivery system should be clean and in good
300 grams of solution are needed. working order.

• For 100 grams of catalyst using a 3:1 dilution, 2. With catalyst delivery and atomization air off, the
400 grams of solution are needed. pump or pot pressure should be adjusted to deliver
desired flow rate of material. Collect in a weighed
9. Once flow rate is set, a clean 12' hose should be container for 15 seconds and calculate delivery
connected to the catalyst tip and sprayed for 30 rate. See Procedure 5 above.
seconds into a pre-weighed container. Catalyst
weight X 2 is flow rate (grams) per minute of 3. The desired catalyst flow rate should be
catalyst. calculated and the delivery rate set. The delivery
rate should be verified by collecting and weighing
10. Once catalyst and gel coat rates are set, the the catalyst as described in Procedures 8 and 9
ball setting on the catalyst should be noted and the above. Actual collecting and weighing of catalyst is
number of pump strokes per minute counted. not practical for some pieces of equipment.
These parameters are useful for noting any Catalyst should be set according to recommended
deviations in calibration but are not a substitute for ball settings and verified by spraying material on a
the calibration procedure. piece of cardboard, collecting some in a cup and
measuring gel time.
CALIBRATING AIR-ATOMIZED EQUIPMENT
For calibration of an air-atomized system, the same
principles apply as for airless spray calibration. The

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 7

Gel Coat Repair

Regardless of the care taken in producing fiberglass
reinforced parts, some of them will require repair. 6. Apply an even coat of paste wax and hand buff.
Defects are caused by operator error, defects in the
mold, contamination, rough de-molding and impact DEEPER DEFECTS - ROUTING
and abrasion during assembly, handling, and Steps
storage. 1. Grind out the defective area with a sharp routing
tool. Do not leave any undercut edges. Feather in
When a defect is discovered, determine and the defective area.
eliminate the cause so that it is not repeated in the
production of subsequent parts. Next, determine 2. Sand entire defective area with 280 grit dry
which of the three major repair types fit the defect: sandpaper, feathering in the edges. Use an air
marred or slightly scratched area; deep defects which hose to blow out the dust.
require routing; or damage to the laminate behind the
gel coat. 3. Wash area with clean acetone.

MARRED OR SCRATCHED AREAS 4. Catalyst and mix the gel coat to repair defective
Steps area. (Epoxy putty may be preferred especially if
1. Wet-sand the damaged area using a good damaged are is in hull or area below water line.) A
quality 320 grit sandpaper followed by successively reinforced putty can be used to fill in areas where
finer grits ending with 600. Use a sanding block there is a deep defect (more than 30 mils) which
when applicable and always sand in the same does not affect the laminate strength. Follow with a
direction. patch. For reinforced putty, mix 10% filler-milled
glass fibers, 1% thixotrope to resin or gel coat. Mix
CAUTION: Use 320 grit only when the defective well until obtaining smooth, paste-like consistency.
area is deep. Minor scratches can be rubbed out Then catalyze, fill, allow to cure and sand for spray
with 400 grit followed by 600 grit or rubbing patch.
compound.
CAUTION: Use the same production batch of gel
2. Wash sanded area with clean acetone. Be sure it coat applied to the part being repaired. Use 2 cc
is completely free of sanding dust and grit both MEKP per 100 grams of gel coat. Hand stir for one
during and when the sanding operation is minute prior to applying to repair area. Fill area and
completed. smooth with flat edge of putty knife. Leave slight
rounded over-fill to allow for shrinkage of the patch
3. Use a good quality rubbing compound and buffer on curved areas Cover with wax paper or
to polish sanded area. It is advisable to use a white cellophane to exclude air from contact with the
or translucent compound especially with white or surface. Do not work at surface temperatures
pastel colored finishes. Use liberal amounts of below 60º F.
compound, minimal pressure and keep buffer
moving to prevent heat buildup.

4. When the surface appears to have a dull gloss,

use a polishing compound to bring the gloss close
to the original gloss.

5. Wash compounded and polished area with clean

acetone.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 8

Gel Coat Repair (Cont.)

5. When patch is firm and free of exotherm heat, 8. Depending upon the degree of surface
remove wax paper or cellophane. Permit patched irregularities, it may be necessary to repeat Steps 4
area to cure for a minimum of one hour. Wet-sand and 5 or reduce the viscosity of the gel coat
with 320 grit sandpaper until rough surface of patch consistency and apply with a touch-up gun. This is
is removed. Proceed with 600 grit and wet-sand accomplished by reducing the gel coat with Max.
until smooth. 20% (wt.) styrene monomer. Catalyze mixture with
2% (wt.) MEKP. Apply the reduced mixture on the
CAUTION: Always use a sanding block and sand in area to be repaired using a uniform, even spray
the same direction. Continue to wet-sand until all stroke. Permit 5-10 minutes to set and then topcoat
shiny edges on patched area have been removed. with a water soluble polyvinyl alcohol parting film.
When the patch is cured, the PVA film can be
6. Wash area with clean acetone. removed with tap water. Proceed with Steps 3
through 6 as outlined in "Marred or Scratched
7. Inspect area for defects. If area is non-porous Areas."
and free of blemishes, proceed with rubbing
compound, liquid polish and wax as outlined in
"Marred or Scratched Areas" Steps 3 through 6.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 9

Repairing Laminate Behind Gel Coat

The following steps should be followed in severe Precautions
cases in which a defective area extends into the 1. Use the same production batch of Gel coat as
back-up laminate of resin and glass: used in the original part. It is a good practice to
draw off one gallon from the drum being used in
Steps production for future repair application. Be sure to
1. With a sharp routing tool, grind out defective agitate prior to drawing off.
area.
2. Damaged area may be too severe to repair in
CAUTION: Do not leave any undercut edges. one step and may require stages. Excess coating
Feather in the defective area. applied at one time will create excess exotherm
heat which will cause the surface to shrink.
2. Blow out residue with air hose and wash with
clean acetone. 3. Let each layer cure prior to applying subsequent
layers.
3. Build up laminate area with 2 oz. fiberglass mat
or equivalent using catalyzed laminating resin 4. Clean with a good quality, clean acetone.
common to the original lamination. Apply in an
even coat making repair area the same thickness 3. Do not use in excess of 2.5% (wt.) or less than
as surrounding laminate. Permit to gel and then 1% (wt.) MEKP in catalyzing the Gel coat for
knife-trim excess glass and resin. patching purposes.

CAUTION: Build up laminate in stages. Do not 4. Heat lamps, heat guns or space heater may be
build up more than 2 plies of 2 oz. mat at one time used to speed patching process and make repairs
to avoid excessive build-up. in cold working conditions,

4. Permit laminate patch area to cure a minimum of CAUTION: Do not overheat. It may cause blistering
three hours at 70º F. and poor color matching.

5. Sand resin and glass area with dry 280 grit 5. Spray patches usually match better than spot
sandpaper to remove glass whiskers and provide patches. In general, keep all patches as small as
uniform surface. Blow area clean with air hose possible.
followed by a clean acetone wash.
6. Additives to the gel coat may cause color
6. Proceed as outlined in "Deeper Defects-Routing" changes.
Steps 4 through 7.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 10

Patching Guide

Problem Probable Cause

Dull Surface Requires additional rubbing out with compound.

Low Gloss Requires additional rubbing out with polish and wax.

Off-Color Patch Different production batch of gel coat material. Dirty materials
and/or equipment. Improper catalyzation. Dirty repair area.

Patch Lift-Off Improper cleaning and repair.

Wet Patch Improper catalyst ratio. Temperature too low.

Porosity in Surface Excess air in gel coat. Water contamination. Application

techniques. Patching material too thick.

Scratches/Sanding Marks Sandpaper grit too course. Dirt or other foreign material on the
buffing wheel. Under-cured patch.

Flaking and Cracking Gel coat material not cured prior to sanding. Improper
catalyzation.

Depressed Area Wet sanding with too small of a sanding block. Sanding with finger
as opposed to using sanding block. Excess exotherm on cure.
Patch area not properly filled.

Smeared Surface Acetone not wiped off surface. Contaminated material. Patch not
sufficiently cured.

Ring Around Patch Edges not feathered or sanded properly. Porosity in original gel
coat material which may require re-spraying. Under-cured patch.

Reappearing Crack Crack was not fully ground out. Weak laminate.

Glossy Patch, Dull Part Original gel coat was under-cured. Buffer developed too much
heat.

Porosity or Void in Patch Improper spray or leveling. Improper mix of filler. Trapped solvent.
Air not worked out.

Patch is Below Surface Not enough allowance for patch shrinkage. Be sure to overfill
repair area. Do not sand and finish until patch is cured.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 11

Styrene and Solvents

Misuse, improper handling and exposure to solvents Auto-Ignition of Styrene
and monomers can cause accidents and health Known also as the kindling temperature, the auto-
problems. The plant supervisor should be notified of ignition temperature is the lowest temperature at
any eye discomfort, breathing difficulty or other which self-sustained (spontaneous) combustion will
physical discomfort. occur (without the presence of spark or flame). The
auto-ignition temperature of styrene is 490º C.
Styrene monomer and most of the commonly used (914º F.).
solvents such as acetone and MEK (methyl ethyl
ketone) give off hazardous vapors which can form Styrene Toxicity
flammable or explosive concentrations even under Toxicity test results show styrene vapors less toxic
normal temperatures. It is imperative these materials than benzene. The characteristic odor along with
be used with good ventilation. Upper and lower almost immediate eye/nose irritation gives workers
explosive limits for styrene monomer by volume of air ample warning that styrene vapor is present and that
are 6.1% and 1.1% respectively. When precautions must be taken to reduce exposure. In
concentrations of styrene fall between these two case of accidental exposure to styrene monomer, call
limits, any ignition source will cause an explosion. a physician immediately.
Therefore, it is imperative that all sources of ignition
be eliminated from areas where solvents or styrene Dispensing of Styrene and Solvents
will be used or stored. That includes smoking, As the fluid is being poured, static electricity can build
welding, burning, hot machinery, open flame and up creating a potentially explosive accident. To
electrical equipment not designed for specific use prevent static electricity build-up when transferring
with these materials. solvent from a drum, the drum must be grounded and
the receiving container bonded to the drum. Be sure
Flash Point of Styrene that grounding cables and connectors are attached to
The lowest temperature at which a substance gives clean bare metal surfaces.
off enough vapors to form a flammable mixture with
air is the flash point. The flash point of styrene is Clean-up
31º C. (87.7º F.). Solvent spills must be cleaned up immediately.
Compounds such as perlite, vermiculite, clay and
Fire Point of Styrene sand will absorb solvent.
In general, fire points are temperatures slightly above
those designated at flash points. The fire point is the Storage and Handling
lowest temperature at which a liquid in an open Carry and dispense solvents from safety cans. Take
container will give off enough vapors to continue only the amount of solvent to be used during a shift
burning after ignition. The fire point of styrene is into the work area. Return unused solvent to storage
34º C. (93.2 º F.). at the end of each shift.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

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 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 12

Catalysts
Organic Peroxides pipes, or direct sunlight. Any of these exposures may
Organic peroxides are usually highly flammable and cause the peroxides to decompose explosively and
under certain conditions may decompose with they will burn violently once ignited. Consult
explosive violence. Catalysts have been tested by manufacturer's recommendations and never exceed
their manufacturer for heat sensitivity, shock recommended storage temperatures.
sensitivity, burning rate, flash point, storage stability
and reaction to blasting caps to determine their If a ketone peroxide is heated above a certain
relative hazards. temperature, its rate of decomposition increases in
an uncontrolled manner. This reaction can become
The material is a strong irritant and corrosive to the violent, releasing large volumes of hot flammable
eyes. Proper protective equipment must be worn gases. The temperature at which this occurs depends
when handling. Obtain manufacturer's material safety on the volume, the container and the length of time
data sheets and safe handling and disposal before which the ketone peroxide remains at the
using. temperature. The self-accelerating decomposition
temperature (SADT) has been determined to be
Mixing about 145º F. for methyl ethyl ketone peroxide. Never
The catalyst must never be added directly to allow organic peroxides to come in contact with easily
undiluted accelerators or promoters. A violent oxidized metals or rubbers. Such metals include
explosion may result. The best procedure is to first copper, brass and mild or galvanized steel. Contact
thoroughly mix the accelerator into the resin and then with natural and synthetic rubbers is hazardous.
add the catalyst. When replacement parts are required for equipment
designed to handle organic peroxides, follow
Very small quantities of peroxide initiator make materials specifications of the equipment
drastic changes in the physical properties of manufacturer.
polyester resins. It is imperative that all precautions
be taken in handling the commercial forms of these Never mix peroxides in metal containers. Brass,
products to assure high performance of the initiator copper, zinc, galvanized finishers and some steels
and to avoid violent decomposition. and aluminum alloys are corroded by peroxides and
the resulting corrosion can trigger a peroxide fire or
Keep all work areas, tools and containers clean. explosion.
Avoid mixing peroxides with any substances other
than those recommended by the catalyst supplier. Equipment designed for contact with ketone
Weigh and mix in a special room or area separate peroxides should be limited to 316 stainless steel
from other plant operations. The mix area should be (304 is an alternate), low and high density
well ventilated and be equipped with sprinklers. polyethylene, glass, and other inert plastic materials
like Teflon, Kynar, Nylon and Kel-F. These
Employees should know the location of the nearest installations should be adequately grounded, bonded
emergency shower and eye wash in the mix area. and of approved explosion-proof electrical
construction.
Contamination
Contamination is always a potential problem in the Resin or resin over-spray can contaminate equipment
handling and use of peroxide catalysts. The most used to handle peroxides and create hazardous
common causes of contamination are exposure to conditions. If, for example, the funnel used to charge
heat and contact with metals. Never expose organic a catalyst pressure pot is contaminated, the amount
peroxides to heat regardless of the source. This of promoter present in the funnel could decompose
means open flames or sparks, radiators, steam

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

www.valsparcomposites.com • (800) 397-1062

 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 13

Catalysts (Cont.)
the peroxide. Grinding dust is also a source of other metals that are corroded by peroxide can result
promoters that can decompose peroxides. in fires and explosions.

Extinguishing Agents NEVER SMOKE IN THE SPRAY AREAS. Wear eye

Ketone peroxides burn vigorously and are difficult to protection at all times. Be sure ventilation system is in
extinguish. The usual precautions for flammable operation and/or wear a respirator to avoid breathing
liquids should be observed. If a small fire occurs, over-spray. Never point the spray gun at yourself or
Class B extinguishers (dry chemical, foam, or carbon anyone else.
dioxide) can be used. In case of fire involving large
quantities of ketone peroxides, the area should be Storage and Shelf Life
evacuated and the fire fought with water. Always store organic peroxides in the manufacturer's
original shipping containers. Properly stored ketone
FireExtinguishing Agent peroxides have a limited shelf life. All containers
Styrene monomer and/or polyesterDry chemical, should be dated upon receipt and either used or
water fog, foam or carbon disposed of within the prescribed time. Store at
monomer and/or polyesterdioxide proper temperature. When measuring or transferring
quantities of peroxide, always use clean glass, teflon,
CAUTION: Solvent and/or monomer fire can float on polypropylene, polyethylene or stainless steel
water and therefore can be spread when hit by a containers, funnels, stirrers, etc.
direct high pressure stream of water. Never use
water or foam to extinguish a fire where electrical Before disposal, containers must be completely
equipment is present. emptied and cleaned. DO NOT REUSE
CONTAINERS. Destroy empty containers following
SPRAYING WITH ORGANIC PEROXIDES container label instructions.
Safety Precautions
Keep all equipment clean, with covers in place. Be Keep only the quantity of material that will be used
sure equipment is checked and maintained regularly. during the operating shift at the work station. Keep all
containers labeled and tightly closed to avoid
Avoid contaminating the organic peroxide when filling contamination. Organic peroxides must be stored
the dispensing containers. Sanding dust and resin apart from all other materials used in the plant.
over-spray are hazardous sources of contamination.
Dispensing containers must be kept away from any
sources of fire or heat.

Make sure pressure pot vents are free of all over-

spray. Vents clogged with over-spray or vents that
are too small will not clean the air adequately. Never
test spray into the atmosphere. Always spray into
water.

Always duplicate the original construction material

when replacement parts become necessary.
Replacing screens and other parts with copper or

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

www.valsparcomposites.com • (800) 397-1062

 Rev 3-03

Gel Coat Application Guide Page 14

Catalysts
DISPOSAL OF ORGANIC PEROXIDES authorities, or by soaking them in water. Follow your
Organic peroxides must be destroyed. If they are plant's recommended procedures.
discarded or dumped into sewers they can catch fire
or explode. Dusts
Dusts from flashing removal, finishing operations,
Spills sanding joints or repairing defects can irritate the
Spilled liquid or paste peroxides must be absorbed skin, nose, throat and lungs. The plant's finishing
with sand, clay, perlite, or vermiculite and then wetted areas should be equipped with exhaust booths or
down with water. After wetting down, sweep up with equipment with vacuum dust collection devices.
non-sparking tools. Sweep solid peroxides with Depending on the effectiveness of this equipment,
extreme caution. Wet waste should be placed in dust respirators may still be necessary. Dust
double polyethylene bags and disposed of as follows: respirators must be worn where there are no dust
collection devices available. Long sleeved shirts will
Disposal of Wet Wastes reduce exposure to skin.
Safe destruction of peroxides can be accomplished
by slowly adding them to a 5% caustic (lye) solution. CAUTION: A source of many explosions has been
Follow your plant's recommended procedures for dust from cutting, grinding, etc. which sifts into
disposal of diluted solution. When cleaning up use catalyst pots through the vent and during filling. This
only clean, white rags. Dyes used in colored rags dust contains cobalt compounds from the promoter
may react with peroxides. Contaminated rags and system which causes decomposition of peroxides.
single-use containers and tools may be disposed of The best way to eliminate this problem is to eliminate
by burning in a property designated incinerator which the catalyst pot altogether and use positive
has been permitted by local environmental displacement catalyst injection equipment.

The information and recommendations found in this guide are intended for FRP professionals. Results are dependent on many variables. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied.

www.valsparcomposites.com • (800) 397-1062