Graphene nanotubes for gelcoats: conductivity with preserved light colors and simple handling


TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes, also known as single wall carbon nanotubes, provide permanent electrical conductivity to gelcoats, while preserving light colors and allowing application via spraying.

TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes are applied via easy-to-use TUBALL™ MATRIX, which is a line of anti-static masterbatches based on polymer carriers and pre-dispersed TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes.

For polyester and vinyl-ester resins, TUBALL™ MATRIX 204 should be used.

Target system

Polyester, vinyl-ester systems

Additive carrier

Plasticizer + stabilizing agent

Triethylene glycol dimethacrylate + ammonium salt of polyolefin-based derivatives

Product

TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes are a versatile conductive agent offering strong performance on all key parameters

Note: this diagram provides average trends compared with other additives, based on OCSiAl data. Product performance may vary depending on product type and formulation.

Full range of electrical resistivity

OCSiAl internal formulation ASTM D257

Easy to apply

TUBALL™ MATRIX can be processed with standard equipment that is widely used in the coatings industry.


Standard single-shaft high-speed mixer

25 min total dilution time

Instant quality control with a grindometer to reach particle size ≤ 15 µm


Other benefits provided by TUBALL™ nanotubes for anti-static gelcoats:

    • Limited impact on viscosity
    • Low dosage gives greater flexibility in the final formulation
    • Easy to apply and the low dosage makes the logistics less complex and more efficient

TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes are applied via easy-to-use TUBALL™ MATRIX, which is a line of ESD additives based on polymer carriers and pre-dispersed TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes.

The difference between conductive and non-conductive gelcoats

Comparison parameters

Standard moldcoat without conductive additives

Anti-static moldlcoat with TUBALL™ MATRIX

Surface resistivity

>1013 Ω/sq

>109 Ω/sq

Application via spray technology

possible

possible

Special anti-static wipes and spray are required during molding and de-molding procedures

required

none

Risk of explosions and fire due to static discharge
(especially for polyester-based composites manufacturers)

high

minimal

The level of anti-static properties depends on humidity of working area (in case of usage of anti-static wipes and spray)

yes

none

Faster de-molding procedure

standard

yes

Uncomfortable static-discharge sensations for workers
(especially in terms of de-molding of big composites parts)

yes

minimal

Risk of dust formation which leads to defects on composite surface

yes

minimal



Application cases

Polyester Gelcoat for Electronic Equipment

click to view case

Polyester Gelcoat for Blades

click to view case

Polyester Moldcoat

click to view case

Pay close attention to the processing guidelines for TUBALL™ MATRIX 200-x and 300-x series


Download PDF version:

Also available in:
English
TUBALL_MATRIX_200x_300x_PROCESSING_GUIDELINES_ENG_V04
pdf549.02 kB

Or watch the processing guidelines video:

TUBALL™ MATRIX - Processing guidelines


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Contact us to discuss your project specifications or to request a TUBALL™ MATRIX sample.