PLYMOUTH, IN—A new class of gelcoats based on a molecule developed by Ferro Corporation's Liquid Coatings and Dispersions Division reduces gelcoat shrinkage by 30 to 60 percent while increasing gloss and color retention by 100 to 217 percent compared with conventional gelcoats, it was announced by Marty Lester, sales manager.

Trademarked "SuperShield," the new formulation offers substantial increases in effective yield, reducing gelcoat consumption and spraying time accordingly.

In 1000-hour Xenon arc accelerated weathering tests, the new gelcoat retains 80 to 95 percent of its original gloss and color (versus 30 to 40 percent for conventional gelcoats), and demonstrates greater resistance to yellowing. The SuperShield product also exhibits a 54 percent improvement in flexural modulus (ASTM D790), and a 55 percent increase in tensile strength (ASTM D638) when tested against conventional formulations.

The new formulation is said to exhibit superior rheology during application at viscosities equivalent to those of conventional gelcoats; spray patterns are reportedly easier to control and have greater affinity to the mold surface, reducing overspray waste.

New chemistry at the molecular level has also decreased the emission of styrene by 50 percent, enabling reinforced processors to improve worker safety, reduce the need for fume scrubbing equipment, and better comply with EPA and OSHA regulations.

Mechanical properties including crack resistance, water/osmosis resistance, chemical resistance, shelf stability, and long-term durability are reportedly equivalent to those of premium grades of conventional gelcoat.