The following precautions should be taken during the use of platinum catalyst:
1. Storage
Sealed storage: Platinum catalyst should be stored in a sealed container to avoid contact with air, because moisture and oxygen in the air may affect its activity. It should usually be stored in a sealed container, such as a glass bottle or a plastic bottle, and make sure the bottle cap is tightened.
Avoid high temperature: Platinum catalyst should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from high temperature environment. High temperature may accelerate the decomposition of the catalyst or reduce its activity. Generally speaking, the storage temperature should be below 25℃ and avoid direct sunlight.
Avoid contact with substances containing sulfur, phosphorus, and nitrogen: These substances may react with platinum catalyst and reduce its catalytic activity. Therefore, during storage and use, platinum catalyst should be avoided from contact with compounds containing sulfur, phosphorus, and nitrogen, such as rubber, sulfur, amines, etc.
2. Operation
Accurate measurement: When using platinum catalyst, its dosage should be accurately measured. Excessive dosage may cause the curing speed to be too fast, generate too much heat, and even cause cracking or deformation of silicone products; too little dosage may cause incomplete curing and affect the performance of the product. Generally speaking, the amount of platinum catalyst should be adjusted according to the type, formula and use requirements of the silicone, usually between 0.1% - 1% of the weight of the silicone.
Stir thoroughly: After adding the platinum catalyst to the liquid silicone, it should be stirred thoroughly to ensure that the catalyst is evenly dispersed in the silicone. The stirring time is generally a few minutes to more than ten minutes, depending on the stirring equipment and the viscosity of the silicone. If the stirring is uneven, it may cause incomplete local curing or inconsistent curing speed, affecting the quality of the product.
Control the operation time: After the platinum catalyst is added to the liquid silicone, the curing reaction will start immediately, so the operation time should be controlled to avoid premature curing of the silicone during operation. Generally speaking, the operation time should be adjusted according to factors such as the amount of catalyst, temperature and viscosity of the silicone, usually between tens of minutes and several hours.
Pay attention to safety protection: Platinum catalyst may cause irritation to the skin and eyes, so appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, etc. should be worn during operation. If it accidentally comes into contact with the skin or eyes, it should be rinsed immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention in time.
3. Equipment cleaning
Cleaning equipment in time: After using platinum catalyst, the used equipment, such as agitators, containers, etc., should be cleaned in time. Because the cured silicone is difficult to remove from the equipment, and if there is catalyst left on the equipment, it may affect the effect of the next use. Organic solvents such as alcohol and acetone can be used for cleaning, but be careful to avoid using solvents containing sulfur, phosphorus, and nitrogen to avoid reaction with the catalyst.
Prevent cross contamination: Different types of catalysts may affect each other, so when using platinum catalyst, avoid mixing with other types of catalysts or catalysts. At the same time, used equipment should be stored separately from unused equipment to prevent cross contamination.