AMPRO™ Colloidal Silica is an additive designed to control the thixotropy, or 'sag' behavior, of resin systems. By adjusting the amount of colloidal silica powder in a resin mix, you can influence the handling and flow properties. Adding small amounts to a resin mix with glass bubbles or microballoons helps achieve non-sagging properties and improves handling.
Colloidal silica can also be combined with microfibers to create a high-strength, non-sagging structural adhesive, especially for non-absorbent materials like GRP (glass-reinforced plastic). However, it increases the hardness of the mix, which can make sanding more difficult. Therefore, it is typically added in minimal quantities when sanding is required. In certain applications, this hardness can be advantageous, such as for creating durable edges or surfaces.
AMPRO™ Silica is naturally water-resistant and hydrophobic, making it ideal for marine applications. It also requires lower loading levels compared to traditional silica, with up to a 2% weight reduction.
