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Accelerator CH8
302923020
€3.20
3,87 € Tax incl.
3,87 € Tax incl.
CH8 Accelerator for polyester resins. Reduces gel time and curing time. Essential for workshops working at low temperatures or with tight schedules.
The CH8 Accelerator is a specific additive for polyester resins that reduces gel time and speeds up curing. It is used alongside the standard catalyst (methyl ethyl ketone peroxide) when ambient temperature is low or when you need to adjust working times to meet process requirements. An essential product for any workshop that regularly works with polyester.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product type | Accelerator for polyester resins |
| Compatibility | Polyester resins (laminating, casting, clear) |
| Use | Together with peroxide catalyst (MEKP) |
| Application | Pre-mixed into the resin, before adding the catalyst |
What it is used for
The CH8 Accelerator is incorporated into the polyester resin before adding the catalyst, with the aim of reducing gel time and promoting faster curing. It is especially useful in environments where ambient temperature is low, which normally slows down the polyester curing process.
- Fibreglass laminates in cold areas or during winter
- Polyester castings when fast demoulding is required
- Work with clear resins where gel time affects the finish
- Series production where cycle times need to be optimised
- Structural repairs where fast curing is critical
- Any application with laminating polyester or casting polyester that requires adjusting gel time
How to use it
- Measure the amount of polyester resin you are going to use and pour it into a clean, dry container.
- Add the CH8 Accelerator to the resin and mix thoroughly until a homogeneous mixture is obtained. The accelerator must be fully integrated before the next step.
- Once the accelerator has been incorporated, add the peroxide catalyst (MEKP) at the ratio specified by the resin manufacturer (typically between 1 and 2% by weight).
- Mix again carefully to avoid incorporating air bubbles.
- Apply the mixture immediately: the working time will have been reduced compared to use without accelerator.
- Allow to gel and cure under normal conditions. Demoulding time will be noticeably shorter.
Important warning: Never mix the accelerator directly with the peroxide catalyst (MEKP) without resin in between. Direct contact between the two products can cause a violent reaction with risk of fire or explosion. Always add the accelerator to the resin first, mix, and only then add the catalyst. Work in well-ventilated spaces, wearing gloves, safety goggles and a respirator mask.
Usage tips
Adjust the dose according to temperature
The amount of accelerator needed depends directly on the ambient temperature. In warm conditions (above 20–22 °C), the resin already has a reasonable curing speed and you may not need accelerator or only a minimal dose. In winter or in cold workshops, a small amount of CH8 can make the difference between a proper gel and incomplete curing. Always run a test with a small amount before committing to a production run.
Do not exceed the recommended dose
More accelerator does not always mean a better result. An excess can cause overly fast curing, with a high exothermic temperature rise, loss of useful working time and potential quality issues in the laminate (bubbles, deformations, incomplete curing in uneven areas). Start with low doses and adjust until you find the optimum point for your mix and conditions.
Compatibility with Ferpol resins
The CH8 Accelerator is compatible with the entire range of Ferpol polyester resins from Feroca: Ferpol 100 BSX15 for laminates, Ferpol 1973 for encapsulations and clear effects and Ferpol 3501 CV2.5 for castings. In each case, follow the specific instructions for each resin regarding catalyst dosage and application conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is an accelerator used for in polyester resins?
An accelerator reduces the gel time and curing time of polyester resin. It is used when ambient temperature is low or when production times need to be optimised. The CH8 Accelerator is incorporated into the resin before adding the peroxide catalyst.
Can I mix the accelerator directly with the catalyst?
No, never. Mixing the accelerator directly with the peroxide catalyst (MEKP) without resin in between can cause a violent reaction with risk of fire or explosion. Always add the CH8 Accelerator to the resin first, mix thoroughly, and only then add the catalyst.
How much accelerator should I use?
The dose depends on the ambient temperature and the type of resin. In cold conditions more is needed; in warm conditions it can be reduced or even omitted. The best approach is to carry out a small-scale test before working with large quantities. Do not exceed the recommended dose to avoid quality issues and the risk of excessive exothermic reaction.
Is it compatible with all types of polyester resin?
The CH8 Accelerator is compatible with polyester resins in general, including laminating, casting and clear resins. It is compatible with the entire Ferpol range from Feroca. It is not designed for epoxy, polyurethane or acrylic resins.
Does the accelerator affect the colour or transparency of the resin?
At normal doses, the CH8 Accelerator should not significantly alter the colour or transparency of the resin. However, an excess of accelerator can cause a slightly more yellowish tint and affect the finish. Always use the correct dose for the best result.
What protective equipment should I use when working with this product?
Always work with nitrile gloves, chemical safety goggles and a respirator mask with an organic vapour filter. Ensure the workspace is well ventilated. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. In case of accidental contact, wash with plenty of water and consult the product safety data sheet.
Can it be used if the resin already contains a factory-added accelerator?
Many polyester resins already include a factory accelerator (pre-accelerated resins). In that case, you generally only need to add the catalyst. If you add CH8 to an already pre-accelerated resin, significantly reduce the dose and run preliminary tests to avoid excessively short gel times or unwanted exothermic reactions. Check the technical data sheet of your resin to find out whether it already contains an accelerator.
What should I do if the resin gels too quickly?
If the gel time is too short for your process, reduce the accelerator dose in the next mix. You can also slightly reduce the amount of catalyst, always within the recommended range (between 1 and 2% by weight). Never work with mixes that gel before you can apply them properly.
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