Orthophthalic

Versatility, performance track record, easy processing, cost efficiency

Orthophthalic formulations (abbreviated as “Ortho formulations”) are a type of unsaturated polyester formulations broadly used for making composite components. The basic chemistry of the formulation backbone consists of a combination of maleic anhydride, phthalic anhydrides, and different types of glycols (e.g. monopropylene glycol, monoethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol).

In the manufacturing process at AOC, these ingredients are combined into an unsaturated polyester chains through a poly-condensation reaction, and then diluted with a reactive monomer (in most cases styrene) and other ingredients to make a finished formulation. Our customers combine the formulation with specific peroxides, so a chemical reaction is initiated between formulation backbone and the styrene, transforming the liquid into a hard and durable material.

AOC is able to tailor formulation characteristics by influencing the ratio of the ingredients for the formulation backbone. This allows to make formulations tha cure at ambient temperature, and to optimize formulation properties like heat resistance and formulation ductility. In addition, formulation cure profile and viscosity can be fine-tuned for the specific production process of the customer.

Ortho formulations are mostly processed in combination with glass fibers and fillers, and in few cases as unfilled formulation (e.g. for clear casting applications). Because of their versatility in performance and ease of processing, Ortho formulations are used in Hand lay-up, Spray-up, Vacuum infusion, Casting, Filament Winding, Pultrusion and SMC BMC processes.

Consequently, Ortho formulations are broadly used in Marine (boatbuilding), Wind (wind turbine blades, rotor components, nacelles), Industrial (sewer pipes, water transport, tanks), Building & Infrastructure (sanitary components, façade panels, artificial stone, profiles, electrical components).

Ortho/ NPG formulations are a special type of Ortho formulations featuring additional strength and improved chemical resistance. For those reasons they are broadly used in Relining applications.

AOC Products

AOC has a broad range of products based on Ortho formulation chemistry in its portfolio, sold under Synolite™, Beyone™, Palatal® and Palapreg® brand names. In order to find the best product for your application, please check out the Product Selector. You can contact an AOC Technical Service representative for helping you in this process (emea@aocformulations.com).

More Information

For additional information, please check out case studies on Eurojust (building façade panels), Fujian Hongye (fishing boats), and Brandenburger (UV cure relining).