What PRO-CURE X-98 is and why choose it
PRO-CURE X-98 by Awlgrip is a solvent-borne accelerator additive designed to shorten dry and cure times of AWLGRIP Topcoats and AWLCRAFT 2000 Topcoats. Added in small, controlled quantities to the mixed topcoat, it helps achieve faster tape, recoat and handling times, improving productivity in professional and industrial painting operations. PRO-CURE X-98 is intended exclusively for use in topcoats and must not be used in primers.
Main features
- Accelerator for Awlgrip topcoats: Formulated specifically for AWLGRIP and AWLCRAFT 2000 Topcoats.
- Reduces dry and cure times: Used to decrease the time required before topcoats can be masked, taped or recoated.
- Spray-application only: PRO-CURE X-98 is recommended exclusively for spray-applied topcoat systems.
- Controlled dosing: Maximum mix ratio of 1/2 liquid ounce per 2 gallons of catalyzed topcoat before adding reducer.
- Fast recoatability at 77°F / 50% RH: With a full addition of PRO-CURE X-98, AWLGRIP Topcoats can typically be recoated or taped in approximately 4 to 6 hours.
- High-performance formulation: Solvent-borne additive containing ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate, toluene and dibutyltin dilaurate, classified as a highly flammable liquid with specific health and environmental hazards.
- Professional-use product: Restricted to professional users and industrial applications.
Technical characteristics
- Product type: Accelerator additive for topcoats.
- Brand: Awlgrip.
- Product name: PRO-CURE X-98.
- SDS code: O73014.
- Packaging: 2 ounce bottles, 12 bottles per case.
- VOC (product code 73014): 888 g/L (7.4 lbs/gal).
- Physical state: Liquid.
- Appearance: Colorless.
- Odor: Solvent.
- Boiling point: Approx. 110°C (230°F).
- Flash point: 4°C (39.2°F), closed cup (Pensky–Martens).
- Density: 0.912 g/cm³ (DIN EN ISO 2811-1).
- Viscosity (kinematic): 44 mm²/s at room temperature; 40 mm²/s at 40°C (DIN EN ISO 3219).
- Solubility in cold water: Not soluble.
- Explosion limits (mixture): Approximate range 1.05% to 9.8% (driven by ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate).
- Chemical stability: Stable under normal storage and use; avoid oxidizing materials.
Composition (key ingredients)
- Ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate: ≥50 – ≤75% (Flam. Liq. 3, H226).
- Toluene: ≥25 – ≤50% (Flam. Liq. 2, H225; Skin Irrit. 2, H315; Repr. 2, H361d; STOT SE 3, H336; STOT RE 2, H373 (cerebral nervous system, inhalation); Asp. Tox. 1, H304; Aquatic Chronic 3, H412).
- Dibutyltin dilaurate: ≤3% (Eye Irrit. 2, H319; Skin Sens. 1, H317; Muta. 2, H341; Repr. 1B, H360FD; STOT SE 1, H370 (thymus); STOT RE 1, H372 (immune system, thymus); Aquatic Acute 1, H400; Aquatic Chronic 1, H410).
Mixing, application and performance data
Mixing and dosage
- Use area: Only in AWLGRIP and AWLCRAFT 2000 Topcoats (not for primers).
- PRO-CURE X-98 dosage: Maximum of 1/2 liquid ounce per 2 gallons of mixed topcoat color base and converter.
- Capful reference: 1/2 liquid ounce is equivalent to approximately 3 capfuls when using the screw top cap.
- Addition point: Add to the catalyzed topcoat prior to adding reducer.
- Induction time after mixing: Not applicable.
Application conditions
- Application method: PRO-CURE X-98 is only to be used in spray applications.
- Compatible systems: AWLGRIP Topcoats mixed for spray application; results for AWLCRAFT 2000 are described as similar.
- Temperature limits for paint application:
- Do not apply paint materials to surfaces warmer than 105°F or colder than 55°F.
- Do not attempt to cure products at temperatures below 55°F.
- Use of accelerators versus temperature:
- Accelerators are not recommended at temperatures above 85°F.
- PRO-CURE X-98 should not be used at temperatures above 75°F.
- Do not exceed the recommended accelerator levels, as performance may be impaired.
Typical spray-application guidance (Awlgrip Topcoats)
The following data refer to AWLGRIP Topcoats mixed for spray application with PRO-CURE accelerators. Values are approximate and depend on full accelerator addition and stated reducer at each temperature.
- 90°F with reducer T0001 and PRO-CURE X-138 (no X-98):
- Dry time to mask/tape: 3–4 hours.
- Application life: 2–3 hours.
- 80°F with reducer T0003 and PRO-CURE X-138 (no X-98):
- Dry time: 4–5 hours.
- Application life: 4–5 hours.
- 70°F with reducer T0003 and PRO-CURE X-138 or X-98:
- Dry time with X-138: 11–12 hours.
- Dry time with X-98: 4–5 hours.
- Application life with X-138: 6–7 hours.
- Application life with X-98: 2–3 hours.
- 60°F with reducer T0001 and PRO-CURE X-138 or X-98:
- Dry time with X-138: 12+ hours.
- Dry time with X-98: 6–7 hours.
- Application life with X-138: 6–7 hours.
- Application life with X-98: 3–4 hours.
- 100°F with T0005 or T0002 and no accelerator:
- Dry time: 18–20 hours.
- Application life: 6–8 hours.
For AWLGRIP Topcoats mixed for brush or roll applications, dry times are typically 10–20% longer, while application life is the same to 10% shorter than for spray mixes. PRO-CURE X-98 itself is not specified for brush/roll use (spray only).
Recoatability with PRO-CURE X-98
- At 77°F (25°C), 50% relative humidity:
- AWLGRIP Topcoats with a full addition of PRO-CURE X-98 can generally be recoated or taped in approximately 4 to 6 hours.
Applications and use cases
- Professional marine refinishing: To accelerate cure of AWLGRIP or AWLCRAFT 2000 Topcoats on professional marine projects where reduced turnaround time is important.
- Industrial coatings: For industrial finishing operations using AWLGRIP Topcoats where shorter masking, taping and recoat intervals can improve workflow.
- Controlled spray environments: Particularly valuable in spray booths operating in the 60–75°F range, where X-98 can markedly reduce dry time while maintaining controlled application life.
FAQ
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Can PRO-CURE X-98 be used in primers?
No. PRO-CURE accelerators are specified for AWLGRIP and AWLCRAFT 2000 Topcoats only and must not be used in primers.
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What is the maximum amount of PRO-CURE X-98 I can add?
The maximum recommended addition is 1/2 liquid ounce of PRO-CURE X-98 per 2 gallons of mixed topcoat color base and converter (about 3 capfuls using the product cap). Do not exceed this level.
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Should I add PRO-CURE X-98 before or after the reducer?
Add PRO-CURE X-98 to the catalyzed topcoat (color base and converter) before adding reducer.
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Is PRO-CURE X-98 suitable for brush or roller application?
No. The data sheet states that PRO-CURE X-98 should only be used in spray applications.
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At what temperatures should I avoid using PRO-CURE X-98?
Accelerators are not recommended above 85°F, and PRO-CURE X-98 specifically should not be used above 75°F. Do not apply paint to surfaces warmer than 105°F or colder than 55°F.
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How fast can I tape or recoat Awlgrip topcoats when using PRO-CURE X-98?
At 77°F and 50% relative humidity, AWLGRIP Topcoats with a full addition of PRO-CURE X-98 can typically be recoated or taped in about 4–6 hours.
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Does PRO-CURE X-98 affect application life (pot life)?
Yes. At lower temperatures it shortens application life. For example, at 70°F with a full addition of PRO-CURE X-98, application life is approximately 2–3 hours, compared with 6–7 hours when using PRO-CURE X-138 at the same temperature.
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Is PRO-CURE X-98 a hazardous product?
Yes. It is classified as a highly flammable liquid and vapor, causes skin irritation, may cause an allergic skin reaction, may cause drowsiness or dizziness, is suspected of causing genetic defects, may damage fertility and the unborn child, may cause damage to organs, and is toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
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Who is allowed to use PRO-CURE X-98?
The product is restricted to professional users according to applicable regulations.
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Can I get detailed performance data for specific topcoat colours or systems?
Consultar ficha técnica del fabricante.
Section 14 – Transport information
- UN number (ADR/RID, IMDG, IATA): UN1263.
- UN proper shipping name: PAINT.
- Transport hazard class: Class 3 (flammable liquid).
- Packing group: II.
- Environmental hazards:
- Classified as hazardous to the environment for transport.
- Marine pollutant (IMDG): dibutyltin dilaurate.
- The environmentally hazardous substance mark is not required when transported in pack sizes of ≤5 L or ≤5 kg.
- ADR/RID special provisions:
- Special provisions: 640 (C).
- Tunnel code: (D/E).
- IMDG: Emergency schedules F-E, S-E.
- Special precautions for users:
- Transport within the user’s premises only in closed containers that are upright and secure.
- Ensure that personnel transporting the product know what to do in case of an accident or spillage.
- Transport in bulk according to IMO instruments: Not applicable.
Section 8 – Personal protective measures
Because PRO-CURE X-98 is a highly flammable and hazardous mixture, appropriate exposure controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential during handling, mixing and spray application.
Engineering controls
- Use only with adequate ventilation.
- Employ process enclosures, local exhaust ventilation or other engineering controls to keep airborne concentrations below recommended or statutory limits.
- Use explosion-proof ventilation equipment to keep gas or vapor below lower explosive limits.
General hygiene measures
- Wash hands, forearms and face thoroughly after handling, before eating, smoking or using the lavatory, and at the end of the work period.
- Remove contaminated clothing and protective equipment before entering eating areas.
- Contaminated work clothing should not be taken out of the workplace; wash before reuse.
- Ensure eyewash stations and safety showers are close to the workstation.
Eye and face protection
- Wear chemical splash goggles complying with an approved standard whenever there is a risk of exposure to liquid splashes, mists, gases or dusts.
Hand protection
- Use chemical-resistant, impervious gloves complying with relevant standards when handling the product.
- For prolonged or frequently repeated contact: gloves of protection class 6 (breakthrough time > 480 minutes according to EN374) are recommended.
- Recommended materials: Viton or nitrile, thickness ≥ 0.38 mm.
- For brief contact: gloves of protection class 2 or higher (breakthrough time > 30 minutes according to EN374).
- Recommended material: nitrile, thickness ≥ 0.12 mm.
- Replace gloves regularly and immediately if damaged.
Skin and body protection
- Select body protection based on the specific task and risks; subject to specialist approval.
- Where there is a risk of ignition from static electricity, wear anti-static protective clothing, including anti-static overalls, boots and gloves (refer to EN 1149).
Respiratory protection
- Select a respirator according to hazard level and potential exposure; it must meet appropriate standards or certifications.
- Use a respirator conforming to EN140 with type A/P2 filter or better when ventilation is inadequate.
- Dry sanding, flame cutting or welding of dry paint films can generate hazardous dust and fumes; use wet sanding wherever possible or provide effective local exhaust ventilation and suitable respiratory protection.
Environmental exposure controls
- Check emissions from ventilation and process equipment to ensure compliance with environmental legislation.
- Where needed, install fume scrubbers, filters or engineering modifications to reduce emissions.
*Contenido generado por IA
