Lower styrene emissions at the open mold
STYRID® is mixed into the resin before catalyst is added. During cure it forms a film on the resin surface that holds back styrene vapor. The film still allows the next layer of resin and fiber to wet out and bond to the previous one. The product is a semi-liquid, ready to use at room temperature, with no melting or solvent dilution required.
When to use it
- Open-mold processing (hand lay-up, spray-up) with styrene-containing resin
- Shops without a styrene extraction system
- Workplace styrene above 50 ppm over an 8-hour shift
- Lower styrene odor without investing in new equipment
Physical properties
Dosage by resin type
Percent by resin weight.
Benefits
- Reduces styrene emissions by up to 50% or more.
- Lowers styrene odor in the work area.
- No effect on secondary bonding between laminate layers.
- Liquid form disperses evenly with normal mixing.
- Ready to use at room temperature – no melting or solvent dilution.
How to use
- Stir STYRID® in the pail before dispensing.
- Weigh STYRID® per the dosage table, based on resin weight.
- Add to uncatalyzed resin and mix well at room temperature (16–32°C).
- Add catalyst and process as usual, or store the treated resin.
- If stored, mix the resin thoroughly before use.
Effect on resin
STYRID® has minimal effect on resin viscosity and gel time. Peak exotherm and hardness drop slightly.
Storage and temperature
Above 27°C the product becomes more liquid and clear. Below 10°C it thickens and cannot be poured – move the pail to an area above 21°C and stir to return it to a semi-liquid. These are physical changes only and do not affect performance.
Frequently asked questions
What dosage of STYRID® should I use?
Iso/Ortho polyester: 0.6–1% depending on resin styrene content. Vinyl ester: 0.75%. DCPD: 1.8–2%. All by resin weight.
Does STYRID® reduce bonding between layers?
No. The film STYRID® forms still allows the next layer of resin and fiber to wet out and bond to the previous one.
Does it change gel time?
Effect on gel time and viscosity is minimal. Peak exotherm and hardness drop slightly, so run a trial before production.
Can I pre-mix STYRID® into resin and store it?
Yes. Treated resin can be used immediately or stored. Mix thoroughly before use.
What if STYRID® thickens in cold weather?
Below 10°C it thickens. Move the pail to an area above 21°C and stir until it returns to a semi-liquid.
Data on this page is taken from the STYRID® technical data sheet. Actual styrene reduction depends on resin type, styrene content, shop temperature and process. Trial with your current resin before production use.