Orthophthalate Resins:
Orthophthalic Is also referred to as ortho or General Purpose Polyester (GP) was the original
polyester developed. It has the lowest cost and is still very widely used in FRP industry.
It is commonly used
in
applications where high mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability
are not required.
Although the upper temperature limit is only 50oC, it performs satisfactory in water and sea
water. It is
normally not recommended for use in contact with chemicals.
Main Applications are hand
lay up, RTM, putties,
roofing sheets, etc.
Types Available:
- General purpose resin
- General purpose resin economy
- General purpose LV
- General purpose UV
- General purpose FR resin
- General purpose boat grade resin
- General food grade resin
- Rooflight resin
- Rooflight UV resin
- Clear resin
Isophthalate Resins:
Often referred to as ISO, it is improved polyester. It has a slightly higher cost, improved strength, thermal stability(55oC) and mild resistance to corrosion conditions. Improved resistance to water permeation has prompted its use as a gel barrier coat in marine applications. Improved chemical resistance has led them to extensive use in underground petroleum tanks (in gas stations) with satisfactory service life. They are also used in salts and mild acids and in automobile and marine applications, corrosion resistant tanks, etc.
Types Available:
- ISO Resin
- ISO NPG Resin
- ISO Boat Grade Resin
- ISO Fire Retardant Resin
Superior Grade Resins:
Even further improved polyester, it is bisphenol chlorinated, or a combination of polyester and epoxy. Its curing, handling and processing characteristics are those of polyester, and it exhibits higher test results in corrosion temperature resistance and strength and has higher cost. Modifications of the molecule have produced even higher properties.
Types Available:
- Vinylester Resin
- Bishphenol Resin
- Super Vinylester Resin
Gelcoats:
Gel coats are prepared from a base resin and additives. The base resin can be polyester,
vinyl ester, phenolic
or epoxy. Additives are thixotropic agents, fillers, pigments and other. The gel coat, as
the name implies, has a
gel texture. This makes the gel coat capable to “stay” on vertical surfaces of moulds
without draping. It is
placed first in the mold, so it becomes the outer surface of the construction. It is used to
replace paint, for
cosmetic purposes, and to protect from the environment.
Gelcoats have a good gloss, resistance to cracking during re-molding and have low porosity
finish
Gelcoats are used in automobile and marine applications, sanitary wares, etc.
Types Available:
- GP GELCOAT
- GPUV GELCOAT
- GPFR GELCOAT
- GP BOAT GRADE GELCOAT
- ISO GELCOAT
- ISO NPG GELCOAT
- ISO BOAT GELCOAT
- ISO FR GELCOAT
- VINYL GELCOAT