The performance of ELASTOSIL® A 8 is dependent upon many factors, including the application method, the thickness of the layer deposited, the substrate, the curing atmosphere, and the curing cycle. Surface Preparation The surface to be coated may need to be cleaned using a water detergent solution and acetone, xylene or other suitable solvent. Application ELASTOSIL® A 8 may be applied by dipping, spraying, or brushing. Equipment used to apply ELASTOSIL® A 8 may be cleaned with organic solvents such as mineral spirits. All traces of solvent should be removed from application equipment before its use with ELASTOSIL® A 8 . UV Curing Once ELASTOSIL® A 8 is in place on the substrate, the cure can be induced by exposure to any of a variety of industrial UV sources. The most effective are D and H bulbs. A 4 second exposure with a D bulb at an intensity of 1.0 W/cm2 cures a 4 mil coating in less than one minute. A shorter exposure time can be achieved with higher intensities. The actual cure time for a given application should be determined on an individual basis. Because ELASTOSIL® A 8 begins to cure on contact with atmospheric moisture, all containers should be tightly closed in light-proof containers when not in use. Dip tanks should be no more than half full and blanketed with a dry, inert gas such as nitrogen. If a skin should form over the surface it may be removed by careful skimming. Spray equipment and brushes should be washed and wiped clean with naphtha or mineral spirits after use.
ELASTOSIL® A 8 is a protective coating designed to be used as a gasket saturant.
