Catalyst question

I’m hand laying vinylester resin/fiberglass weave over a plywood hardtop ,there’s lots of details on the inside that slow the process down, and creating more cold joints than I want to deal with.
I’ve heard rumors about a slow settting catalyst, but my local supplier doesn’t seem to know about it.
It would sure be nice to have more time to gel, it’s always hot here, mix goes off quickly even at 1%.
Anyone know of such a product?

 

This page might be helpful Butanox® – the world’s leading brand of MEKP https://www.nouryon.com/products/organic-peroxides/butanox/ .Which isn't to say that your local stockist will be hustling to put the product on his shelves if only one customer is seeking to buy it.

 

@ondarvr and @rxcomposite are experts that post here; see if they say anything

 

Are you using waxed resin? Usually, if they are air inhibited the surface will stay tacky for a long time.

 

There are blends of various ratios.

MCP75 is common, so is Straight CHP. You can get some CHP and blend it with your current catalyst at any ratio you want to get the desired result.

 

Thanks for the input and links.
I’m making progress now that I’m armed with some knowledge.

 

popular choices;
Nouryon Trigonox 263
Arkema Luperox CAT730
United Norox MCP75

They're all MEKP / CHP blends.

 

Yes, slow-setting catalysts are available for vinylester resin, which can help extend your working time. These catalysts are designed to slow down the curing process, giving you more time to work with the resin, especially in hot climates. Some suppliers may not carry them as standard, but you could try looking for a "slow cure" or "extended working time" catalyst from specialty suppliers or check with larger distributors who focus on marine or composite materials. You can also experiment with temperature control (cooling the resin or workspace) to slow curing.