ARADUR 36

ARADUR 36 is a high-solids waterborne polyamine-adduct epoxy curing agent developed for two-component ambient-cured coatings requiring long pot life, good corrosion resistance, strong adhesion, high gloss and low VOC. The commercial grade is supplied at approximately 79-81% solids in water and is designed for use with compatible liquid and dispersed epoxy resins in waterborne coatings for metal, steel, mineral and civil-engineering substrates. ARADUR 36 combines relatively low viscosity for a concentrated waterborne hardener with high active content, allowing formulators to build durable epoxy coatings without relying on conventional solvent-cut curing-agent technology.

PRODUCT IDENTITY

Product name: ARADUR 36
Product type: Waterborne epoxy curing agent / hardener
Chemical family: Polyamine adduct
Broader chemical family: Amines / polyamines
Carrier: Water
Physical form: Liquid
Appearance: Clear liquid
Color: Gardner ≤6
Odor: Amine
Solids content: Approximately 79-81%
Water content: Approximately 19-21%
Viscosity at 25°C: Approximately 4,000-7,000 mPa·s
Amine value / amine index: Approximately 185-225 mg KOH/g
Active hydrogen equivalent weight: Approximately 165 g/eq
Density at 20-25°C: Approximately 1.04 g/cm³
Flash point: Approximately ≥190°C by Pensky-Martens closed-cup data
Typical gel time / pot-life reference with ARALDITE GY 776: Approximately 150 minutes under published selector conditions
Practical pot life in historical coating formulations: Typically up to approximately 2.5 hours before gloss loss becomes significant
Typical mix ratio with ARALDITE GY 776: Approximately 100:88 parts by weight
Typical mix ratio with ARALDITE PZ 33757/67: Approximately 100:62 parts by weight
Typical mix ratio with ARALDITE PZ 3961-1: Approximately 100:17 parts by weight
Mix-ratio flexibility: Approximately ±10% in the referenced systems
Primary functions: Curing agent, hardener and crosslinker
Primary end use: Two-component coatings
Material compatibility: Metal substrate, steel substrate and mineral substrate
Key current features: Anti-corrosion protection, excellent adhesion, high gloss and long pot life
VOC claim: Current information identifies ARADUR 36 as VOC-free
Benzyl alcohol: Published selector information identifies the grade as benzyl-alcohol-free
Historical positioning: Waterborne coatings, epoxy flooring, wall coatings, civil-engineering coatings and protective systems
Storage range: Approximately 2-40°C in sealed original packaging, with temperatures not allowed to fall below 0°C in historical technical guidance
CAS Number: Commercial waterborne polyamine-adduct mixture; no single CAS number should be assigned to the complete trade grade without the current SDS
EC Number: Commercial mixture; no single EC number should be assigned to the complete trade grade without the current SDS
Molecular Formula: Not applicable to the commercial formulated mixture
Molecular Weight: Variable / not applicable as one fixed value
ARADUR 36 should be described as a proprietary high-solids aqueous polyamine-adduct curing-agent mixture rather than as one pure chemical. The active hardener contains a distribution of amine-containing molecular structures, while water forms approximately one-fifth of the supplied product. A single molecular formula or molecular weight would therefore not accurately represent the commercial material. Product-specific SDS documentation should be used for formal component identities and hazard classifications.
WHAT IS ARADUR 36?
ARADUR 36 is a reactive waterborne hardener intended to crosslink epoxy resins while allowing the formulation to remain compatible with aqueous processing. The product is specifically designed for two-component ambient-cured coatings in which conventional volatile organic solvent use is reduced or eliminated from the hardener side.
The active polyamine adduct reacts chemically with epoxy groups in the resin. At the same time, water serves as a physical carrier that lowers viscosity, supports application and allows the resin-hardener system to be formulated as a waterborne coating.
The high solids content distinguishes ARADUR 36 from more highly diluted waterborne hardeners. With approximately 79-81% non-volatile material, the grade introduces substantially less water into the formulation than products supplied at around 50% solids. This can support faster water loss, higher film build and reduced drying burden while retaining the environmental and handling advantages of waterborne technology.

POLYAMINE ADDUCT CHEMISTRY

A polyamine adduct is produced by partially reacting a polyamine with an epoxy-functional or other reactive material before final use. This controlled pre-reaction increases molecular weight and changes volatility, compatibility, viscosity and cure behavior compared with the original low-molecular-weight amine.
The adduct still contains reactive primary and secondary amine hydrogens. These groups remain capable of opening epoxy rings during final cure. The pre-reacted structure can improve film appearance, reduce free-amine behavior and support better compatibility with aqueous epoxy systems.
ARADUR 36 is not simply a diluted conventional amine. The active material has been designed specifically for waterborne epoxy formulation. Its measured AHEW, amine value, viscosity and high solids content are more useful for formulation than attempting to infer one molecular structure.

HOW EPOXY CURING WORKS

Epoxy resins contain strained oxirane rings. Reactive amine hydrogens in ARADUR 36 attack these rings and open them, forming new carbon-nitrogen bonds and hydroxyl groups. Repeated reactions connect resin and hardener molecules into a three-dimensional thermoset network.
The material gradually changes from a liquid coating into a crosslinked solid. Film hardness, adhesion, chemical resistance and water resistance continue developing after the surface becomes dry to the touch.
Water does not become part of the main thermoset network. It must leave the film during drying and early cure. Water removal and epoxy-amine reaction therefore proceed together, and both processes must be controlled for optimum performance.

WATERBORNE EPOXY TECHNOLOGY

Waterborne epoxy coatings can use emulsified liquid epoxy resins, dispersed solid epoxy resins or self-dispersing epoxy systems. ARADUR 36 can be paired with suitable resin technologies to create two-component coatings with reduced solvent emissions.
The water phase affects wetting, viscosity, drying, coalescence and application feel. Relative humidity, substrate temperature and airflow therefore influence the finished film more strongly than they may in a conventional solvent-borne epoxy.
A successful waterborne epoxy coating must remain stable after the two components are mixed, maintain useful application viscosity through the pot-life window and then form a continuous film as water leaves and cure advances. ARADUR 36 is designed to provide good handling and flow within this process.

HIGH SOLIDS CONTENT

ARADUR 36 contains approximately 79-81% solids. This is high for a waterborne curing agent and means only approximately 19-21% of the commercial product is water.
High solids reduce the amount of carrier that must evaporate after application. This can support higher dry-film build per coat and reduce the risk of extended water retention.
The active concentration also explains why ARADUR 36 requires substantially less wet hardener than lower-solids waterborne products when used with the same epoxy functionality. Mix ratio must therefore be based on the exact commercial grade and resin.

WATER CONTENT

Historical specification data give a water content of approximately 19-21%. Water content is directly linked to solids concentration and affects viscosity, drying and stoichiometric interpretation.
Too much water in a waterborne epoxy can slow drying, increase sag and reduce early resistance. Too little water can make mixing and application more difficult if viscosity becomes too high.
Water content is therefore a meaningful incoming quality-control parameter for ARADUR 36.

VISCOSITY

ARADUR 36 has a specified viscosity of approximately 4,000-7,000 mPa·s at 25°C. This is substantially lower than many other concentrated waterborne polyamine hardeners.
Relatively low viscosity improves pumping, metering, mixing and pigment wetting. It can also reduce the amount of additional water required to reach application viscosity.
Viscosity is temperature dependent. Cold material will become thicker, while warm material becomes easier to pump and mix. Samples should therefore be equilibrated to 25°C before comparing them with published specification data.

AMINE VALUE

The published amine value is approximately 185-225 mg KOH/g. This analytical value reflects total basic amine functionality in the commercial product.
Amine value is useful for quality control and batch consistency. A significant shift can indicate composition change, contamination or degradation.
Amine value should not be used alone to calculate epoxy stoichiometry because basic nitrogen sites and reactive hydrogen count are not identical concepts. Active-hydrogen equivalent weight is more directly useful for cure calculations.

ACTIVE HYDROGEN EQUIVALENT WEIGHT

ARADUR 36 has a typical active-hydrogen equivalent weight of approximately 165 g/eq as supplied. This is a comparatively low AHEW for a waterborne curing agent, reflecting its high active-solids level.
AHEW represents the mass of curing agent required to supply one equivalent of reactive amine hydrogen. It is the key parameter used together with resin epoxy equivalent weight to estimate a stoichiometric starting ratio.
Published mix ratios should be preferred where available because the commercial resin form, dispersion structure and formulation objectives can justify values different from a simple theoretical calculation.

DENSITY

Published data place density at approximately 1.04 g/cm³. Density is useful for manufacturing calculations and for converting between mass and volume.
Because epoxy resins and ARADUR 36 can have different densities, volumetric mix ratios should not be assumed from weight ratios. Weight-based dosing remains the most direct approach unless the dispensing system has been calibrated accurately.
Density also provides a secondary incoming quality-control check.

FLASH POINT

Historical technical data report a Pensky-Martens closed-cup flash point of at least approximately 190°C. This very high flash point is consistent with the absence of a conventional flammable solvent carrier.
A high flash point reduces fire risk relative to xylene- or alcohol-cut hardeners, but it does not eliminate all fire hazards. The organic curing-agent fraction can still burn or decompose under sufficiently severe heating.
The current SDS should govern fire prevention, extinguishing media and emergency response.

VOC-FREE CHARACTER

Current product information identifies ARADUR 36 as VOC-free. This makes the grade attractive for waterborne and low-emission coating systems.
The claim applies to the hardener itself as currently positioned. The complete mixed coating can still contain VOC if the resin component, coalescent, additives or other formulation materials contribute regulated volatile compounds.
Finished-product VOC must therefore be calculated or measured according to the applicable regional method.

BENZYL-ALCOHOL-FREE CHARACTER

Published selector literature identifies ARADUR 36 as benzyl-alcohol-free. Benzyl alcohol is often used in some amine hardeners to lower viscosity or accelerate cure, but it can influence emissions, water resistance and migration behavior.
The absence of benzyl alcohol supports ARADUR 36's positioning as a high-solids waterborne hardener without a conventional solvent diluent.
A formal restricted-substance declaration should still be obtained from current supplier documentation where required.

LONG POT LIFE

Long pot life is one of the primary current product features for ARADUR 36. Selector literature gives approximately 150 minutes with ARALDITE GY 776 under standardized conditions.
Historical product information also states that dispersion coatings formulated with ARADUR 36 typically have a practical pot-life limit of about 2.5 hours because gloss can begin to decline before a dramatic viscosity increase is observed.
This distinction is particularly important in waterborne epoxy technology. The mixture may still appear usable while chemical advancement has progressed enough to reduce flow, gloss or final film quality.
Pot life should therefore be defined by application performance as well as viscosity.

POT LIFE VERSUS GEL TIME

Pot life and gel time describe different stages of cure. Gel time identifies when the mixture loses fluidity under a defined laboratory method. Pot life is the period during which the mixed material still provides acceptable application properties.
In ARADUR 36 systems, gloss loss can become the practical end-of-pot-life criterion before severe viscosity rise. This behavior means operators should not judge usability only by whether the material can still be stirred.
A coating applied late in the pot-life window may level poorly or show reduced gloss even if the mixture has not visibly gelled.

HIGH GLOSS

High gloss is one of the major current product features of ARADUR 36. Historical pigmented topcoat examples reported approximately 90% gloss at 60° in suitable formulations.
Gloss depends on formation of a smooth, continuous film. ARADUR 36's flow and compatibility characteristics help support a uniform surface as water evaporates.
Pigment dispersion, resin selection, film thickness, drying conditions and pot-life age remain important. A formulation mixed too long before application can lose gloss even when its viscosity still appears manageable.

LOW COLOR

ARADUR 36 has a Gardner color specification of no more than approximately 6. This relatively low color is useful in pale primers, clear sealers and high-gloss coatings.
Hardener color can contribute slightly to the tone of clear or lightly pigmented systems. In heavily pigmented anti-corrosion primers, the effect is usually less visible.
Color stability is also a useful quality-control characteristic because large changes can indicate degradation or contamination.

FLOW

Good handling and flow are long-standing attributes associated with ARADUR 36. Flow allows the wet coating to redistribute after application and reduce brush, roller or spray texture.
The relatively low viscosity of the hardener supports incorporation into the resin component without requiring excessive dilution. This can help maintain solids and film build.
Flow must still be balanced against sag resistance. Rheology modifiers may be needed for high-build vertical coatings.

ADHESION

Current information highlights excellent adhesion. Epoxy chemistry naturally provides strong polar interaction with many substrates, while the polyamine-adduct structure supports wetting and interfacial contact.
ARADUR 36 systems can be formulated for steel, other metals and mineral substrates. Surface preparation remains essential because contamination can prevent the coating from reaching the actual substrate.
Concrete laitance, grease, soluble salts, rust and release agents can all create weak boundary layers and reduce adhesion.

ANTI-CORROSION PROTECTION

Anti-corrosion protection is another current product feature. The cured epoxy network reduces transport of water, oxygen and ions toward the metal surface.
Strong adhesion helps prevent underfilm corrosion from spreading laterally. Pigments such as zinc phosphate, lamellar fillers and other barrier materials can further improve performance.
ARADUR 36 itself is a curing agent rather than a corrosion-inhibiting pigment. Final protection depends on the complete coating system.

UV RESISTANCE

Historic launch literature highlighted good UV resistance for ARADUR 36-based waterborne systems, particularly in flooring and wall coatings. This should be interpreted in the context of the formulated coating rather than as a claim that conventional epoxy chemistry becomes universally weatherproof outdoors.
Epoxy coatings can still yellow, chalk or lose gloss under prolonged direct sunlight depending on resin chemistry and exposure severity.
For demanding exterior decorative retention, a UV-resistant topcoat such as polyurethane, acrylic or polysiloxane may still be appropriate.

APPLICATIONS

Waterborne anti-corrosion primers
ARADUR 36 is well suited to waterborne anti-corrosion primers for steel and other properly prepared metallic substrates. Its high solids and good adhesion support a continuous epoxy barrier film. Corrosion-inhibitive pigments and controlled dry-film thickness can be used to increase service durability.

Direct-to-metal coatings
Current substrate compatibility includes metal and steel. ARADUR 36 can therefore be used in suitable direct-to-metal waterborne epoxy systems where primer and protective functions are combined. DTM performance depends strongly on surface cleanliness, pigment selection and edge coverage.

Industrial maintenance coatings
Factories, process plants, machinery and structural steel can use ARADUR 36-based waterborne epoxies where long pot life and reduced solvent emissions are desired. The coating system should be designed around actual chemical, mechanical and environmental exposure.

Marine coatings
Waterborne epoxy systems based on ARADUR 36 can be evaluated for marine and shipping-related protective applications where formulation approval supports the intended exposure. Surface salt removal is critical because soluble chlorides can promote blistering and underfilm corrosion.

Wall coatings
Waterborne epoxy wall coatings can provide washable, chemically resistant surfaces in industrial, institutional and utility environments. ARADUR 36's high gloss and flow can support smooth appearance.

Civil-engineering coatings
Civil-engineering systems are a documented application area for ARADUR 36. Concrete primers, sealers, protective wall coatings and related mineral-substrate systems can take advantage of the hardener's waterborne character and adhesion.

Concrete primers
ARADUR 36 can be used with compatible resin technology to create primers for prepared concrete. The coating should wet the pore structure without leaving a weak or excessively porous film.

Concrete topcoats
Waterborne epoxy topcoats can provide hardness, chemical resistance and cleanability on interior concrete. Exterior exposure requires consideration of epoxy UV durability.

Mineral-substrate coatings
Current material compatibility includes mineral substrates. Masonry, cementitious panels and related surfaces can be coated where moisture, alkalinity and porosity have been addressed.

Steel primers
Steel is a primary substrate for anti-corrosion epoxy. ARADUR 36 can be used in waterborne primer systems designed to reduce solvent emissions while maintaining adhesion and barrier protection.

Machinery coatings
Equipment housings, frames, pumps and industrial machinery can benefit from durable waterborne epoxy primer or finish systems based on ARADUR 36.

Factory-applied metal coatings
Controlled production environments can provide airflow and temperature conditions favorable to waterborne curing. ARADUR 36 can be used where long pot life and high gloss are useful in spray-applied industrial coatings.

General industrial coatings
Cabinets, shelving, fabricated metal, interior structural parts and industrial components are potential applications. Final coating architecture should reflect the required corrosion category and appearance.

High-gloss topcoats
The hardener can be used in suitable high-gloss waterborne epoxy topcoats, especially for interior or protected environments. Pot-life age must be controlled because late application can reduce gloss.

Clear and lightly pigmented sealers
Low color makes ARADUR 36 relevant to selected clear or pale systems. Clarity still depends on resin compatibility, film thickness and complete coalescence.

Barrier coatings
The dense crosslinked epoxy network can provide barrier performance against water and industrial exposure when fully cured. Barrier fillers can further reduce permeability.

Floor primers
Low-VOC floor primers can wet prepared concrete and provide a bonded base for thicker epoxy layers. ARADUR 36 can be incorporated where resin compatibility and application conditions are suitable.

Warehouse floors
Industrial and commercial floors can benefit from high gloss, adhesion and chemical resistance. Cure conditions should be controlled before traffic or washing.

Workshop floors
Epoxy floor systems used in workshops can resist oils, dirt and cleaning agents when fully cured. Heavy mechanical wear may require filler or aggregate reinforcement.

Utility-room coatings
Plant rooms, technical areas and service corridors can use waterborne epoxy floor and wall coatings to reduce solvent odor during application.

Food-production-area coatings
ARADUR 36-based epoxy can be considered for industrial food-processing environments only where the complete coating system has the necessary regulatory and hygiene suitability. Generic hardener use does not establish food-contact approval.

Laboratory wall and floor coatings
Epoxy systems can provide easy-to-clean surfaces in laboratories and technical rooms. Chemical resistance should be verified against the actual reagents used.

Parking and service areas
Selected sheltered parking or service areas can use waterborne epoxy coatings. UV exposure and tire-related chemical resistance should be considered.

Metal furniture coatings
Steel furniture can use waterborne epoxy primer or finish systems where high gloss and corrosion protection are required.

Appliance and equipment primers
Prepared metal components can receive ARADUR 36-based primers beneath suitable topcoats. Production drying conditions should be controlled for water removal.

Protective wall paints
Industrial and institutional wall coatings can use waterborne epoxy chemistry for scrub resistance, stain resistance and cleanability.

Waterborne epoxy adhesives
ARADUR 36 can be evaluated in specialized aqueous epoxy bonding formulations where compatible resin dispersions and appropriate water removal are available. Bond-line geometry must allow adequate film formation.

Cementitious-epoxy hybrid systems
Waterborne epoxy curing agents can be incorporated into specialized cementitious or mineral hybrid technologies where chemistry is compatible. Alkalinity and ionic strength require careful formulation testing.

ARALDITE GY 776 SYSTEM

Historical technical guidance recommends approximately 100 parts ARALDITE GY 776 to 88 parts ARADUR 36 by weight. This ratio is specific to the resin and commercial hardener forms.
Published selector information associates ARADUR 36 with approximately 150 minutes pot life or gel-time behavior when used with GY 776 under standardized conditions.
The ratio should not be transferred directly to another resin because epoxy equivalent weight and resin physical form can differ substantially.

ARALDITE PZ 33757/67 SYSTEM

Historical data recommend approximately 100 parts ARALDITE PZ 33757/67 to 62 parts ARADUR 36 by weight. This lower hardener level reflects the different epoxy functionality and solids profile of the resin system.
The referenced guidance allows approximately ±10% variation. More hardener favors flexibility and adhesion, while lower hardener can improve anti-corrosion protection.
This trade-off should be validated using final film properties rather than adopted mechanically.

ARALDITE PZ 3961-1 SYSTEM

Historical technical data recommend approximately 100 parts ARALDITE PZ 3961-1 to 17 parts ARADUR 36 by weight. The large difference from GY 776 and PZ 33757/67 demonstrates why resin-specific mix ratios are essential.
PZ 3961-1 is a waterborne epoxy dispersion, so the reactive equivalent balance differs from liquid-resin emulsions. The exact current resin documentation should be used when formulating.
Mix ratios should always be verified against the latest TDS because commercial grades and formulation guidance can evolve.

MIX-RATIO ADJUSTMENT

Historical guidance states that deviations up to approximately 10% from the recommended ratios can be tolerated in referenced systems.
A higher proportion of ARADUR 36 tends to increase flexibility and improve adhesion. A lower proportion tends to improve anti-corrosion protection.
The relationship reflects changes in network stoichiometry, polarity and cured-film structure. Larger deviations should not be assumed safe without testing.

PRACTICAL POT-LIFE LIMIT

One of the most important technical points for ARADUR 36 is that practical pot life can be limited by gloss rather than by a dramatic viscosity increase.
Historical product information states that dispersion coatings formulated with ARADUR 36 are typically limited to a maximum of about 2.5 hours before gloss decline becomes significant.
A clear viscosity increase may appear later, especially in heavily diluted mixtures. Applicators should therefore track elapsed time from mixing and not rely only on viscosity.

POT-LIFE MANAGEMENT

Only the amount of coating that can be applied within the validated working period should be mixed.
Higher ambient temperature shortens pot life, while cooler temperature generally extends it. Batch size can also influence heat generation and reaction rate.
Once the practical pot life has been exceeded, adding water should not be used to restore the coating because chemical advancement cannot be reversed by dilution.

WATER DILUTION

ARADUR 36 contains only about 19-21% water as supplied, so additional water can be used in the final formulation to adjust application viscosity where required.
Water addition should be controlled because excessive dilution reduces wet-film solids, slows drying and can reduce sag resistance.
Deionized water is often preferred in sensitive waterborne coatings because salts can alter colloidal stability and corrosion performance.

ORDER OF ADDITION

Two-component waterborne epoxy systems should use a consistent addition sequence. Resin, pigment grind, water, additives and hardener must be introduced in a way that preserves dispersion stability.
ARADUR 36 should be added under adequate agitation to ensure uniform distribution. Localized hardener concentration can cause viscosity spikes or poor film uniformity.
The exact procedure should be validated for each resin system.

FILM COALESCENCE

Waterborne epoxy film formation requires continuous polymer structure to develop as water evaporates. Chemical cure alone cannot compensate for severe coalescence failure.
Low temperature can prevent efficient particle deformation and fusion. High humidity slows water removal.
Compatible coalescing aids or liquid epoxy components can be used where necessary, but their VOC contribution and effect on cure must be considered.

DRYING

ARADUR 36-based coatings dry through a combination of water evaporation and chemical crosslinking.
Air movement, substrate temperature and relative humidity strongly influence early drying. Closed rooms with saturated air can delay water loss even when the chemical reaction is proceeding.
Adequate ventilation improves drying consistency.

HUMIDITY EFFECTS

High relative humidity slows water evaporation and can delay hardness development. It may also increase the risk of early water sensitivity or surface defects.
Very low humidity can accelerate surface drying and, in some formulations, reduce leveling time.
Application specifications should define a validated humidity range for the finished coating.

LOW-TEMPERATURE APPLICATION

Low temperature increases viscosity, slows epoxy-amine reaction and reduces evaporation rate. These effects can combine to produce long dry times or incomplete early film formation.
Substrate temperature should remain above the dew point to prevent condensation.
A formulation intended for cool conditions should be specifically tested rather than assuming room-temperature performance will transfer directly.

WARM CURING

Moderate heating can accelerate both water evaporation and chemical cure. Factory-applied metal coatings can benefit from controlled warm-air or oven drying.
Heating should begin in a way that allows water to escape. Rapid surface closure can trap moisture and create blistering.
Actual substrate temperature should be monitored rather than relying only on oven-air temperature.

PIGMENT DISPERSION

Pigmented ARADUR 36 coatings require stable aqueous pigment dispersions. Pigments and fillers introduce surfaces that can adsorb dispersants, change ionic strength and alter viscosity.
The pigment grind is often prepared on the resin side before hardener addition. This keeps reactive amine separate during storage.
Final compatibility should be checked after the hardener is mixed because some pigments can change cure rate or destabilize the formulation.

ANTI-CORROSIVE PIGMENTS

Zinc phosphate and related corrosion-control pigments can be used in compatible waterborne epoxy primers. They supplement the barrier and adhesion provided by the cured resin.
Lamellar fillers such as mica or micaceous iron oxide can increase diffusion path length and reduce penetration of water and oxygen.
Pigment package and hardener ratio should be optimized together.

ZINC-RICH SYSTEMS

Zinc-rich primers require special attention because metallic zinc can react under unsuitable aqueous or alkaline conditions and generate hydrogen gas.
ARADUR 36 should not automatically be assumed suitable for every zinc-rich formulation without product-specific development.Any use with zinc dust should include stability, gas-evolution and corrosion testing.

MINERAL FILLERS

Barytes, calcium carbonate, talc, mica and silica can modify rheology, barrier properties and cost.
Waterborne formulations are sensitive to dissolved salts and surface treatments carried by mineral fillers. Raw-material consistency can therefore influence stability.
High filler loading can reduce binder continuity and gloss if pigment volume concentration becomes excessive.

RHEOLOGY MODIFIERS

Associative thickeners, cellulose derivatives, clays and other waterborne rheology modifiers can be used to control sag, settling and application feel.
Amine addition can change pH and electrolyte balance, altering rheology-modifier efficiency. Viscosity should therefore be checked after both components are mixed.
Rheology should remain acceptable throughout the pot-life window.

DEFOAMERS

Waterborne epoxy mixing can entrain foam. Pinholes and bubbles reduce film continuity and can lower corrosion resistance.
Suitable defoamers can improve air release, but excessive defoamer can create craters or adhesion defects.
Defoamer selection should be confirmed in the complete two-component system.

SURFACTANTS AND WETTING AGENTS

Surfactants support pigment wetting, substrate wetting and dispersion stability. Excessive surfactant can increase water sensitivity and foam.
ARADUR 36 itself contains water-compatible functionality, so additional surfactant should be used only as needed.
A formulation should be evaluated for early water spotting, intercoat adhesion and final chemical resistance after surfactant changes.
pH
Amine hardeners are basic and can raise the pH of a mixed coating. pH affects dispersion stability, corrosion behavior and associative thickener performance.
Strong acid neutralization can consume reactive amine functionality and alter cure. pH adjustment therefore requires caution.
The final mixed system should be evaluated rather than relying on resin-side pH alone.

EARLY WATER RESISTANCE

Waterborne epoxy films can remain sensitive during early cure because residual water and incomplete crosslinking are present.
Premature exposure can cause whitening, gloss loss, swelling or softening.
Water resistance improves as the film dries and network conversion increases. Severe exposure should begin only after the validated cure period.

CHEMICAL RESISTANCE

Fully cured ARADUR 36 epoxy systems can provide useful resistance to water, oils and many industrial chemicals, depending on resin selection and network structure.
Waterborne processing does not mean the final thermoset remains water soluble.
Chemical resistance should be tested with the actual exposure medium, concentration and temperature after full cure.

MECHANICAL DURABILITY

Epoxy networks provide good hardness and abrasion resistance when adequately cured. ARADUR 36 contributes to network formation, while pigments, fillers and resin chemistry influence final mechanical properties.
Flooring systems exposed to heavy traffic can require aggregate or hard mineral reinforcement.
Mechanical tests should be performed after full cure because early results may understate performance.

RECOATABILITY

ARADUR 36-based primers can be recoated with compatible coating systems within a validated recoat window.
If the epoxy has cured fully, light abrasion may be required to improve mechanical adhesion. Surface contamination should be removed before recoating.
Waterborne-to-solvent-borne and waterborne-to-waterborne combinations should both be tested for compatibility.

AMINE BLUSH

Amine-cured epoxy systems can develop surface deposits when reactive amines encounter moisture and carbon dioxide.
Waterborne formulation does not eliminate this mechanism completely, although optimized adduct chemistry can reduce free-amine effects.
Any blush should be removed before recoating or bonding.

WEATHERING

Conventional epoxy networks can chalk and lose gloss under prolonged outdoor UV exposure.
Historical ARADUR 36 literature described good UV resistance in relevant coating systems, but the complete resin formulation controls long-term exterior appearance.
A weather-resistant topcoat is advisable where decorative gloss and color retention are critical.

QUALITY CONTROL

Important ARADUR 36 quality parameters include appearance, Gardner color, amine value, water content and viscosity. Historical technical data identify these as specified characteristics.
Typical data also include AHEW, density and flash point.
Functional cure testing with a standardized epoxy resin can provide an additional check on performance consistency.

WHY SOLIDS CONTENT MATTERS

Solids content determines how much active hardener is delivered by a given weight of commercial product.
A lower solids level introduces more water and less active amine, potentially changing mix ratio, dry time and final properties.
High 79-81% solids are one of ARADUR 36's main formulation advantages.

WHY VISCOSITY MATTERS

Viscosity affects pumping, metering and mixing. ARADUR 36 is comparatively easy to handle for a high-solids waterborne hardener.
Temperature should be standardized before comparing viscosity to specification.
Unexpected permanent change can indicate concentration drift or contamination.

WHY AMINE VALUE MATTERS

Amine value provides a chemical fingerprint for the curing agent and supports batch consistency.
A substantial shift can change cure response and stoichiometry.
It should be considered together with solids, viscosity and functional performance.

WHY WATER CONTENT MATTERS

Water content directly affects concentration, dry time and application viscosity.
The specified 19-21% range is therefore central to the commercial grade.
Water loss during improper storage would increase viscosity and active concentration.

TDS, SDS AND COA

The current Technical Data Sheet or official documentation should be used to confirm properties, mix ratios, storage guidance and formulation recommendations.
The Safety Data Sheet governs hazard classification, first aid, PPE, transport, storage and disposal.
The Certificate of Analysis can provide batch-specific controlled values where supplied. Historical technical documents are useful for formulation context but should not replace current regulatory documentation.

SAFETY AND HANDLING

ARADUR 36 is a reactive amine-containing curing agent and should be handled according to the current SDS. Waterborne and VOC-free status reduce conventional solvent exposure but do not eliminate skin and eye hazards from reactive amines.
Chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection and suitable protective clothing should be used. Good industrial hygiene is important during transfer and mixing.
Ventilation should be appropriate for the complete coating system and application method.

SKIN CONTACT

Repeated skin contact with epoxy hardeners can cause irritation or sensitization.
Contaminated skin should be washed promptly with suitable cleansing materials and water.
Solvents should not be used to clean skin because they can increase irritation and penetration.

EYE CONTACT

Splash protection is important during pumping, dilution and mixing.
If product enters the eyes, rinse immediately and thoroughly with clean water and obtain medical attention according to the SDS.

INHALATION

ARADUR 36 has low conventional solvent vapor compared with solvent-cut hardeners, but aerosols generated during spray application or high-energy mixing should be controlled.
Respiratory protection should be based on the complete formulation and actual exposure assessment.

INGESTION

ARADUR 36 is an industrial reactive chemical and must not be ingested.
Food and beverages should be kept out of chemical-handling areas.
Follow SDS and medical guidance after accidental ingestion.

SPILL MANAGEMENT

Spilled ARADUR 36 can create a slippery surface and should be contained promptly.
The material should be prevented from entering uncontrolled drains or surface water.
Contaminated absorbent and recovered material should be disposed of according to local requirements.

FIRE RESPONSE

The high flash point reduces flammability relative to solvent-rich curing agents, but the organic fraction can decompose or burn under severe heat.
Thermal decomposition can generate carbon oxides, nitrogen-containing products and other hazardous fumes.
Fire response should follow the current SDS and facility emergency plan.

STORAGE

Technical guidance recommends storing ARADUR 36 dry in the sealed original container at approximately 2-40°C and away from direct sunlight.
Temperatures should not be allowed to fall below 0°C. Freezing can damage a waterborne curing agent's physical stability.
Containers should remain tightly closed to prevent contamination and water loss.

FREEZE PROTECTION

Because ARADUR 36 is waterborne, freezing should be avoided.
Ice formation can separate phases, alter colloidal structure or create irreversible viscosity changes.
Material suspected of freezing should be evaluated against specification before use.

SHELF LIFE

The exact shelf life should be taken from current supplier documentation or the expiry date on the original package.
Proper temperature control and sealed storage support long-term stability.
Material beyond its stated shelf life should be requalified before use.

REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS

Current information identifies ARADUR 36 as VOC-free and SVHC-chemicals-free. These claims should be confirmed from current documentation whenever formal regulatory statements are required.
The product is a proprietary mixture, so inventory and hazard status depend on all components and jurisdiction.
Generic use in coatings does not automatically establish food-contact, potable-water or other specialized approval for the finished formulation.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Waterborne and VOC-free hardener technology can reduce organic-solvent emissions and workplace odor.
Uncured amine-containing material should nevertheless not be released directly to soil, surface water or drains.
Cleaning water from two-component epoxy operations may contain reactive resin, hardener, pigment and additives and should be managed according to local rules.

COMMON FORMULATION PROBLEMS

Slow drying
High humidity, low temperature, weak airflow or excessive water dilution can delay water removal. Improve environmental conditions and reduce unnecessary carrier.

Poor corrosion resistance
Incorrect hardener ratio, insufficient dry-film thickness, poor surface preparation or weak pigment design can reduce protection. Evaluate the complete primer system.

Poor adhesion
Oil, soluble salts, rust, weak concrete laitance or condensation can create a weak boundary. Correct substrate preparation before changing the binder.
Shorter-than-expected pot life
Warm material, catalytic pigments or a more reactive resin can accelerate cure. Control component temperature and verify resin identity.

Excessive viscosity
Cold material, water loss during storage or advanced mixed material can increase viscosity. Confirm temperature and pot-life age before dilution.

Sagging
Excess water, inadequate rheology or excessive wet-film build can cause vertical run-down. Adjust water, rheology and application thickness.

Foaming
High-speed mixing and incompatible surfactants can entrain persistent air. Optimize defoamer and mixing conditions.

Poor coalescence
Low temperature or incompatible resin-hardener balance can leave a weak or hazy film. Improve film-forming conditions and resin selection.

Early water sensitivity
Insufficient drying and crosslinking can cause whitening or softening. Delay water exposure until full cure.

Phase instability
Incompatible additives, pigments or electrolyte contamination can destabilize the waterborne system. Review raw materials and order of addition.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is ARADUR 36?
ARADUR 36 is a high-solids waterborne polyamine-adduct epoxy curing agent.

What is the solids content?
Approximately 79-81% by weight.

What is the viscosity?
Approximately 4,000-7,000 mPa·s at 25°C.

What is the amine value?
Approximately 185-225 mg KOH/g.

What is the active hydrogen equivalent weight?
Approximately 165 g/eq as supplied.

What is the density?
Approximately 1.04 g/cm³.

What is the flash point?
Historical product data give approximately ≥190°C by Pensky-Martens closed-cup testing.

Is ARADUR 36 VOC-free?
Current information identifies ARADUR 36 as VOC-free.

Is ARADUR 36 benzyl-alcohol-free?
Published selector information identifies the grade as benzyl-alcohol-free.

What is the recommended mix ratio with ARALDITE GY 776?
Approximately 100 parts ARALDITE GY 776 to 88 parts ARADUR 36 by weight.

What is the recommended mix ratio with ARALDITE PZ 33757/67?
Approximately 100 parts resin to 62 parts ARADUR 36 by weight.

What is the recommended mix ratio with ARALDITE PZ 3961-1?
Approximately 100 parts resin to 17 parts ARADUR 36 by weight.

What is the typical pot life?
Selector literature gives approximately 150 minutes with ARALDITE GY 776, while practical coating pot life has historically been limited to around 2.5 hours because gloss can decline.

What are the main product benefits?
Long pot life, anti-corrosion protection, excellent adhesion, high gloss, low color and good flow.

What substrates are suitable?
metal, steel and mineral substrates.

Can ARADUR 36 be used for epoxy flooring?
Yes. Epoxy flooring and wall coatings are documented application areas.

Can the mix ratio be adjusted?
approximately ±10% in referenced systems, with more hardener favoring flexibility and adhesion and less favoring anti-corrosion performance.

Does ARADUR 36 have one CAS number?
No single CAS number should be assigned to the complete proprietary trade grade without confirmation from the current SDS.

How should ARADUR 36 be stored?
Store dry in the sealed original container at approximately 2-40°C, protect from direct sunlight and do not allow the product to freeze.

What documents should be checked before use?
Use the current TDS or official product documentation, SDS and batch-specific COA where available.

FINAL TECHNICAL SUMMARY

ARADUR 36 is a high-solids waterborne polyamine-adduct hardener developed for two-component ambient-cured epoxy coatings. It combines approximately 79-81% solids with relatively low viscosity, allowing formulators to achieve waterborne application while introducing less carrier water than many lower-solids hardeners.
Historical specification data identify ARADUR 36 as a clear liquid with Gardner color no higher than approximately 6, amine value around 185-225 mg KOH/g, water content around 19-21% and viscosity around 4,000-7,000 mPa·s at 25°C. Typical data include an active-hydrogen equivalent of approximately 165 g/eq, density around 1.04 g/cm³ and flash point of at least approximately 190°C.

The commercial product is a proprietary polyamine-adduct mixture and should not be assigned one fixed molecular formula, molecular weight or universal CAS number. Current SDS documentation should be used for formal component identity and hazard classification.
Current product positioning highlights anti-corrosion protection, excellent adhesion, high gloss and long pot life. The grade is listed for two-component coatings and compatibility with metal, steel and mineral substrates.
ARADUR 36 is also identified as VOC-free and SVHC-chemicals-free. Published selector information identifies it as benzyl-alcohol-free. These claims should be confirmed from current supplier documents when formal regulatory declarations are required.
One of the most important characteristics of ARADUR 36 is the combination of high solids and workable viscosity. Compared with lower-solids waterborne hardeners, it adds less water to the formulation and can therefore support higher film build and reduced drying burden.

Published guidance gives approximately 100:88 parts by weight for ARALDITE GY 776 / ARADUR 36, approximately 100:62 for ARALDITE PZ 33757/67 / ARADUR 36 and approximately 100:17 for ARALDITE PZ 3961-1 / ARADUR 36. These values demonstrate that mix ratio is highly resin-specific.
Historical guidance allows approximately ±10% variation around the recommended ratio in referenced systems. More hardener tends to improve flexibility and adhesion, while lower hardener level can improve anti-corrosion performance.
Selector literature gives approximately 150 minutes of pot life or gel-time behavior with ARALDITE GY 776. Historical product information also notes that practical coating pot life can be limited to approximately 2.5 hours by loss of gloss before a strong viscosity increase occurs.
This gloss-based end of pot life is important operationally. Mixed material should not be judged usable only because it remains fluid. Time from mixing, appearance and application quality should all be monitored.
Waterborne anti-corrosion primers, direct-to-metal coatings, industrial maintenance systems, epoxy flooring, wall coatings, mineral-substrate coatings and other civil-engineering applications are relevant uses. High gloss and low color make ARADUR 36 particularly suitable where appearance matters in addition to protection.

Waterborne epoxy performance depends on both chemical cure and physical water removal. Temperature, humidity, airflow and film thickness therefore influence early drying and final properties.
Anti-corrosion performance depends on the complete system, including surface preparation, resin, hardener ratio, pigment package and dry-film thickness. ARADUR 36 provides the reactive curing phase but does not replace corrosion-inhibitive pigments or proper substrate preparation.
Quality control should focus on appearance, Gardner color, amine value, water content and viscosity. AHEW, density, flash point and functional cure response provide additional technical information.
ARADUR 36 should be stored in sealed original packaging at approximately 2-40°C and protected from direct sunlight. Historical guidance specifically states that temperatures should never be allowed to fall below 0°C.
For ARADUR 36 technical specifications, application guidance, TDS, SDS, COA and formulation information, contact ATAMAN KIMYA with the intended epoxy resin, substrate, coating system and required performance characteristics.

ATAMAN KIMYA
Phone: +90 216 577 10 10
Email: info@atamankimya.com