For Free Radical
Polymerization

BlocBuilder^® RC-50 for Free Radical Polymerization

BlocBuilder ^® RC-50 is a reactivity controller, containing the remarkable new nitroxide radical SG-1, which enables the control of organic peroxide free radical polymerizations. This nitroxide-mediated technology is the basis of several Arkema patents and can be used to control the polymerization of any unsaturated resin.

BlocBuilder ^® RC-50 Controller provides the following benefits to composite laminate manufacturers:

• Reduced logistics costs - room temperature shipping and storage
• Reduced inventory obsolescence costs - extended product shelf-life
• Homogeneous blending - easy dispersion into resin systems
• Reduced overall material costs - reduction of required initiator volume
• Reduced resin scrap - extended pot-life for initiated resins without addiitonal inhibitors (see chart below)
• Reduced resin viscosity (up to 50%) and wet-out time - elevated temperature resin (up to 105º F)
• Simple trigger to start gelation - cure-on-demand (through heat energy)
• Improved laminate mechanical properties - reduced void content in cured laminate

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Extends Resin Pot-Life

Significantly Reduces
Infusion & Gel Time

Reduces Resin Viscosity

Unlike traditional inhibitors that consume up to 50% of the free radicals from the initiators, BlocBuilder^® RC-50 Controller "caps" the styril-free radicals to form a dormant species.

This molecule will remain dormant until sufficient heat energy ( ~145^º F / 60^º C ) is applied to the initiated resin to uncap the free radicals. Because all of the free radicals are still available, curing is faster and complete, with lower residual styrene.

BlocBuilder^® RC-50 Controller has demonstrated significant value in the following closed mold composite manufacturing processes:

• Pultrusion
• Filament winding
• Resin transfer molding & vacuum infusion processing
• Sheet/bulk molding compounds
• Prepreg materials

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Improves Mechanical Properties

Arkema's flexible business model supports diverse marketplace requirements. Depending on your needs and interest, you can purchase either the BlocBuilder^® RC-50 Controller or a custom blend with alternative diluents, initiators and/or co-promoters.