Thixbooster and Thixbreaker provide users with two new process additives that interact in perfect synchronization. They form the basis for the innovative BYK Viscosity Control Technology (VCT) that opens up enormous value-added potential for manufacturers of epoxy resin systems. This applies to the formulation itself as well as to the production, transportation, and application of the coatings.
The additives influence the properties of hydrophilic fumed silica particles, and thus help reduce or adapt the initial viscosity of high-viscosity two-component adhesives, sealing and putty materials, as well as protective coatings. Among other things, they are used in components of wind turbines or in rapid prototyping.
BYK-P 2710 (Thixbreaker) is designed for the epoxy resin and BYK-P 2720 (Thixbooster) for the corresponding amine hardener component. Thanks to the synchronized interaction, the two additives enable the creation of the optimum application viscosity from two low-viscosity components. Result: The finished formulations can be applied with the same layer thicknesses, yet more quickly and considerably more easily than is the case with the current commonplace systems.
By comparison, VCT reduces the production time of the formulation by roughly half, while the production volume during the same period is doubled. A further advantage: The low viscosity of the formulation also has logistical benefits. Instead of barrels, the liquid formulations can be transported in environmentally friendly IBC containers or in tanker trucks. This reduces the workload and the costs of the transportation.
BYK is one of the world’s leading suppliers in the field of additives and measuring instruments. Additives are chemical substances which, when used in small quantities, improve product properties such as scratch resistance or surface gloss. Manufacturing processes are also optimized by the addition of additives.
The coatings, inks, and plastics industries are among the main consumers of BYK additives. Yet with the production of oil and gas, the manufacture of care products, the production of adhesives and sealants, and construction chemistry, too, BYK additives improve the product characteristics and production processes. Testing and measuring instruments from BYK can effectively evaluate the quality of color, gloss, and appearance as well as the physical properties of paint, plastic, and paper products and are an important part of quality control.
As a globally operating specialty chemicals company, BYK has production sites in Wesel, Kempen, Moosburg, Schkopau and Geretsried (Germany), Deventer, Denekamp and Nijverdal (Netherlands), Widnes (UK), Wallingford, Chester, Gonzales, Louisville, Rochester Hills, Earth City (USA) and Tongling (China).
Today the company employs around 2,200 people worldwide and forms part of the ALTANA Group.
This press release is also available on the Internet at www.byk.com/press.