Using S-LEC B/K

1. Mixed solvents
   

   To obtain a low solution viscosity for S-LEC B/K, it is better to employ a mixed solvent than a single solvent. In addition, the viscosity of a mixed solvent is more stable when stored. Typical combinations of alcohol-, aromatic-, ketone- and ester-base solvents are shown in Fig. 1 below. The desirable mixing rate for alcohol base and aromatic-base solvents is 4 : 6, which assures a low-viscosity solution. We particularly recommend a mixture of ethanol/toluene as a solvent. If you use methanol or ethanol as the alcohol-based solvent, there is a chance that the coating may be whitened. To prevent this, add about 5% n-butanol.

   

2. Water content in solution
   S-LEC B/K has a larger allowable range of water content than any other synthetic resin. Except for high Butyral content types (S-LEC BL-5, BL-SH, BM-SH, BL-S, BM-S and BH-S), the existence of 3% to 8% of water lowers the solution viscosity. This is of great practical use.
   
   

3. Dissolving S-LEC B/K
   Stir the solvent continuously, and gradually pour in the S-LEC B/K. It dissolves at ambient temperature, but if the solvent is heated the dissolution is accelerated. Do not apply heat immediately after putting S-LEC B/K into the solvent, as this may cause agglomeration. Wait until the S-LEC B/K is saturated with solvent before heating. When using a mixed solvent, first swell S-LEC B/K with a solvent that does not dissolve butyral resins alone, such as aromatic-, ester-, ketone-, or chlorinated hydrocarbon-based solvents, and then add an alcohol-base solvent which dissolves S-LEC B/K. The dissolving speed of the BL types is so high that you can mix the solvent before adding the resin. The solvent must be tested carefully in advance, because it heavily influences the solution viscosity, dissolving speed, the condition of coatings after application, and costs.

1. Static electricity
   Static electricity builds up on S-LEC B/K in the same way as with other resins. Therefore, when using solvents, you must be sure to provide an earth to remove any static electricity.
   
   

2. Toxicity
   S-LEC B/K resin is non-toxic, but we recommend that you wear a dust-proof mask when handling the resin is in its fine-powder state.
   
   

   Warehousing

   [1] Do not allow contact with water, and avoid piling up the bags.
   [2] Do not expose the bags of resin to direct sunlight.
   Please see MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for further details.