* These items are provided as general information only. They use approximate values and are not considered part of the product specification.
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XAMA
®
7
Polyfunctional Aziridine
Description
XAMA 7 polyfunctional aziridine is utilized as a cross-
linking agent and adhesion promoter and modifier.
Product Specifications
Property
Value
Bruto formula
C
20
H
33
O
7
N
3
Mol. weight
427
CAS number
57116-45-7
EINECS number
260-568-2
Monomer
EI
Aziridine content, meq/g
6.35 - 7.00
Viscosity, cp at 25°C
4000 max
Ethyleneimine
<10 ppm
Appearance
Clear, amber liquid
Typical Properties *
Property
Value
Aziridine functionality approx
3.3
Weight per litre, g at 25°C
1184
Density at 25°C g/ml
1.18—1.20
Freezing point (°C)
<-10
Flash point (°C) (TCC)
>100
Vapor pressure (mmHg)
<0.1
Solubility
100% water
Application
When used as a cross-linker, XAMA 7 aziridine dramati-
cally improves the final properties of many adhesive, coat-
ing, and printing applications. It imparts strength and
flexibility, improves solvent resistance, alcohol and water
resistance, increases hardness, and upgrades adhesion to
difficult substrates.
XAMA 7 aziridine contains three aziridine groups in a high
molecular weight, low volatile, molecule. Each aziridine
group can react with an active H
+
, as found in the carboxyl
groups of acrylic emulsions and polyurethane dispersions.
This reaction protonates and opens the aziridine ring,
which then reacts with the oxygen of the carboxyl groups
forming a cross-link network.
Cross-Linking Mechanism
The diagram below shows the reaction of a carboxyl group
with the aziridine ring. Since each molecule of XAMA 7
contains three aziridine groups, a crosslinked network is
formed when all three groups react with the carboxyl
groups.
Carboxyl group
Aziridine
Cross-Link Network
Typical Application Conditions
Method of Addition: XAMA 7 aziridine is added to finish
formulated coating systems just prior to use. Therefore,
the polyfunctional aziridine must be used in a two-
component system with addition taking place at the time
of use.
The aziridine is added, slowly and with good agitation, di-
rectly to the formulated coating system. It can be added
neat or in solution. If added in solution, a solvent without
an active H
+
should be used.
Addition Levels. The level of aziridine to add to the formu-
lated system will depend on the coating system and the de-
sired properties of the coating film. Most applications find
use levels between 1% and 3% based on resin solids.
Higher levels, such as 5%, may yield higher solvent resis-
tance and adhesion properties.
pH of the Formulated System. An aqueous system pH of
9.0-9.5, at the time of aziridine addition, most often pro-
duces the optimum results. A lower pH may cause the
aziridine to react prematurely in the pot.
Pot Life: An aqueous system containing a low boiling (vola-
tile) amine, such as ammonia or triethylamine, has a pot
life of about 18-36 hours. If use is extended beyond this
time, there will be a loss of aziridine functionality. This loss
can be replenished, without a negative effect on film prop-
erties, by adding more of the polyfunctional aziridine.
Solubility
XAMA 7 aziridine is miscible in water and many common
organic solvents. This allows it to be used in both aqueous
and solvent systems.
Compatibility
XAMA 7 aziridine is very reactive with active hydrogen
groups, such as those found in carboxyl groups of acrylic
emulsions and polyurethane dispersions. Do not expose to
acidic materials, high heat, direct sunlight, ultraviolet radia-
tion, strong oxidizers.
Storage
XAMA 7 polyfunctional aziridine must be stored away
from acids and oxidizers. Store in a cool, dry, well venti-
lated storage area and in closed containers. Protect material
from freezing. The shelf life is approximately 24 months
from date of manufacture when stored in closed original
containers at 25 °C.
Health and Safety Information
Appropriate literature has been assembled which provides
information pertaining to the health and safety concerns
that must be observed when handling XAMA 7 polyfunc-
tional aziridine. For materials mentioned that are not
Ichemco products, appropriate industrial hygiene and
other safety precautions recommended by their manufac-
turer should be followed. Before working with any product
mentioned in this publication, you must read and become
familiar with available information concerning its hazards,
proper use, and handling. This cannot be overemphasized.
Information is available in several forms such as material
safety data sheets and product labels. For further informa-
tion contact Ichemco.
Note: The information contained in this bulletin is current as of November 2004. Please contact Ichemco to determine
whether this publication has been revised.
Market Uses
Application
Benefits
Adhesives
Increases cohesive strength
Faster cure time
Improves adhesion to difficult substrates, such as polyolefin, marble, stainless steel, and glass
Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives
Increases cohesive strength
Adhesion modification
Improves adhesion to difficult substrates, such as polyolefin, marble, stainless steel, and glass
Faster cure time
Printing Inks
Improves adhesion to varied substrates
Increases scuff resistance
Increases water and chemical resistance
Faster cure time
Over-Print Varnishes
Improves adhesion to varied substrates
Increases scuff resistance
Increases water and chemical resistance
Increases high temperature resistance
Faster cure time
Wood Coatings
Improves water and chemical resistance
Faster cure time
Low VOC formulations
Improves black heal resistance
Improves abrasion resistance
Leather and Textile Coatings
Improves wear resistance
Faster cure time
Increases water and chemical resistance
Protective Films
Adhesion modification
Faster cure time
Photographic Films
Improved adhesion
Increases anti-static properties
Plastic Films
Increases anti-static properties
Increases anti-blocking properties
Improves adhesion of coating
Ichemco srl
Via 11 Settembre, 5 • 20012 Cuggiono (MI) • Italy • Phone +39-02-97243.1 • www.ichemco.it
The manner in which you use and the purpose to which you put and utilize our products, technical assistance and information (whether
verbal, written or by way of production evaluations), including any suggested formulations and recommendations are beyond our control.
Therefore, it is imperative that you test our products, technical assistance and information to determine fo your own satisfaction whether
they are suitable for your intended uses and applications. This application-specific analysis must at least include testing to determine suit-
ability from a technical as well as health, safety, and environmental standpoint. Such testing has not necessarily been done by us. Unless
we otherwise agree in writing, all products are sold strictly pursuant fo the terms of our standard conditions of sale. All information and
technical assistance is given without warranty or guarantee and is subject to change without notice. It is expressly understood and agreed
that you assume and hereby expressly release us from all liability, in tort, contract or otherwise, incurred in connection with the use of our
products, technical assistance, and information. Any statement or recommendation not contained herein is unauthorized and shall not
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