ALKYL GLYCIDYL (AGE)
Alkyl Glycidyl Ether (AGE) is a monofunctional, low-viscosity reactive diluent typically obtained from the reaction of C12-C14 aliphatic alcohols with epichlorohydrin. It is used in epoxy resin systems to effectively reduce viscosity without compromising the mechanical and thermal performance of the base resin. Due to its low volatility (low VOC) and surface tension-reducing effect, it maximizes the wetting and spreading capabilities of coating formulations while directly participating in cross-linking reactions, thereby permanently integrating into the final polymer matrix.
Key Features and Advantages
- Excellent Viscosity Reduction Effect: Reduces high-viscosity epoxy resins to easily applicable levels, increasing filler acceptance and workability.
- Superior Surface Wetting: Facilitates pigment dispersion and provides excellent penetration into the substrate (concrete, metal) due to its low surface tension profile.
- Low Volatility (VOC): Unlike traditional solvents, it does not evaporate; it chemically reacts to become part of the polymer structure, supporting environmental compatibility.
- Increased Flexibility: Imparts macro-molecular flexibility, improving thermal shock and mechanical impact resistance in rigid epoxy systems.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value / Specification | Unit | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, Colorless Liquid | - | Visual |
| Epoxy Equivalent Weight (EEW) | 275 - 300 | g/eq | ASTM D1652 |
| Viscosity (25°C) | 5 - 15 | mPa.s | ASTM D445 |
| Color Value | max. 50 | APHA | ASTM D1209 |
| Density (25°C) | 0.880 - 0.900 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Flash Point | > 110 | °C | ASTM D93 |
Areas of Application
AGE is primarily used in solvent-free or high-solids epoxy floor coatings, self-leveling systems, industrial adhesives, and composite lamination resins. It is also incorporated into formulations for potting resins prepared for the insulation of electronic components and in concrete repair mortars to optimize pot life and facilitate de-aeration.
Storage and Shelf Life
The product should be stored in its original, tightly sealed packaging, away from moisture and direct sunlight, in well-ventilated, cool warehouses. It must be strictly isolated from acid, base, and amine-based hardeners to preserve the reactivity of the epoxy groups. The ideal storage temperature is between 15°C and 25°C. Under suitable conditions, the shelf life is a minimum of 12 months from the production date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of AGE in epoxy systems?
AGE is a monofunctional reactive diluent that increases the fluidity of the resin by reducing viscosity in solvent-free epoxy systems. It ensures a more homogeneous mixture of the resin with the hardener and better wetting of fillers.
How does the use of AGE affect the mechanical strength of the final product?
Due to its monofunctional structure, AGE adds flexibility to the formulation. Excessive use may slightly reduce the cross-link density and consequently the glass transition temperature (Tg) and hardness of the final product; therefore, it should be used at optimum ratios determined by laboratory tests.
What is the difference between a reactive diluent and standard chemical solvents?
Standard solvents thin the resin and then evaporate during curing, leading to volume loss (shrinkage) and emission issues. Reactive diluents like AGE, however, do not evaporate during curing; they chemically react and bond to the polymer chain, reducing volume loss to zero.
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