The Acrystal Thixotropic Agent is an opaque, non-toxic, odourless liquid additive that thickens the Acrystal acrylic polymer to allow application on vertical surfaces without sagging. It is the essential complement when working on vertical laminates or when you need to apply an acrylic gel coat with full control over flow.
Technical specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Type | Liquid thixotropic additive |
| Appearance | Opaque liquid |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Odour | Odourless |
| Recommended dosage | 0.2 – 0.3% of the acrylic mix |
| Compatibility | Acrystal acrylic resins |
What it is used for
This thixotropic agent is designed exclusively to adjust the viscosity of resins in the Acrystal Prima + Basic Crystal family. By increasing the thixotropy of the mix, the material becomes thick at rest but flows when applied with a brush or spatula — ideal behaviour for working vertically without material loss.
- Laminates on vertical walls with fabric and acrylic resin
- Application of acrylic gel coat on inclined or vertical surfaces
- Laminates in moulds with complex geometry where resin tends to pool
- Any process requiring control of the Acrystal mix flow
How to use it
- Prepare the standard Acrystal acrylic mix (powder + liquid) following the proportions indicated for your system.
- Weigh the thixotropic agent: use between 0.2% and 0.3% by weight of the total acrylic mix.
- Add the thixotropic agent to the prepared mix and blend thoroughly with a mixer or spatula until you obtain a homogeneous, lump-free consistency.
- Apply immediately onto the vertical surface with a brush, roller or spatula as required.
- Allow to cure following the standard instructions of the Acrystal system used.
Important notice — critical dosage: Do not exceed 0.3% thixotropic agent in the mix. An excess can inhibit the cure of the acrylic resin, leaving the piece unhardened or with incomplete cure. Always weigh with a precision scale.
Usage tips
Weigh with a precision scale
Working quantities are very small (0.2–0.3% of the total). For a 1 kg mix, that equals 2–3 grams of thixotropic agent. A scale with 0.1 g resolution is essential to avoid exceeding the dose and risking the cure.
Adjust the dose according to the surface
For slightly inclined surfaces, 0.2% is usually sufficient. Reserve 0.3% for completely vertical walls or work with fabric in an overhead position (ceiling). Never scale the dose beyond that limit under any circumstances.
Combine it with the Retarder if you need more working time
For complex vertical applications or large surface areas, you may want to extend the working time of the mix. The Retardante Acrystal is compatible and gives you extra time without compromising the thixotropy achieved.
Frequently asked questions
What does a thixotropic additive do in acrylic resins?
A thixotropic agent increases the viscosity of the mix at rest, preventing it from sagging. When applied with a brush or spatula — where mechanical shear is applied — it flows normally again. The Acrystal Thixotropic Agent achieves this effect in Acrystal resins, making it possible to laminate and apply gel coats on vertical walls without material loss.
What happens if I add too much thixotropic agent?
An excess above 0.3% can inhibit the cure of the acrylic resin. The piece may remain unhardened or have soft spots. That is why it is essential to weigh precisely and never exceed the recommended dose.
Can it be used with any acrylic resin?
The Acrystal Thixotropic Agent is formulated specifically for the Acrystal family of acrylic resins. It is not intended for other resin families (epoxy, polyester, polyurethane) or for acrylic resins from other systems such as Jesmonite, which have a different formulation.
How does the thixotropic agent affect the final finish of the piece?
When correctly dosed (0.2–0.3%), the Acrystal Thixotropic Agent does not significantly alter the finish or the mechanical properties of the cure. It may slightly reduce the flow of the mix, which in casting applications can trap a few more bubbles. For horizontal castings, it is preferable to work without thixotropic agent.
Is it necessary to use thixotropic agent when working horizontally?
No. In horizontal applications (castings, moulds in a flat position) Acrystal resin has the appropriate flow without additives. The thixotropic agent is only needed when working vertically or on heavily inclined surfaces where the material would sag before curing.
Can the thixotropic agent be mixed with the retarder?
Yes. The Retardante Acrystal and the Acrystal Thixotropic Agent are compatible with each other within the Acrystal system. Combining them is useful for vertical work over large surface areas where you need more application time without the mix sagging.
How much thixotropic agent do I need for a typical job?
The quantities are very small: between 2 and 3 grams per kilogram of acrylic mix. Consumption is minimal, so one container goes a long way. A precision scale with 0.1 g resolution is essential for correct dosing.
Is any personal protective equipment required to use this product?
The Acrystal Thixotropic Agent is non-toxic and odourless. Even so, as with any resin work, it is recommended to wear nitrile gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. The main safety precautions in the Acrystal system relate to the resin itself, not the thixotropic agent.
How much product do I need?Calculate the exact amount before buying and avoid wasting material.
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