ARADUR 3985

ARADUR 3985 is a waterborne modified polyamine-adduct epoxy curing agent developed for zero-VOC two-component primers, sealers, coatings, floorings and civil-engineering systems that require a clearly visible end of pot life, fast cure, strong adhesion and durable film performance. The commercial product is supplied as an approximately 55% solids aqueous hardener with no organic solvent, and it is positioned the grade for 2K coatings, floorings, mortars, primers and other waterborne coatings on metal and mineral substrates. ARADUR 3985 is particularly useful in self-leveling and highly filled flooring systems, including thick layers applied up to several millimeters, and it can also be used to modify other waterborne curing agents when a clear gelation endpoint is needed.

PRODUCT IDENTITY

Product name: ARADUR 3985
Product type: Waterborne epoxy curing agent / hardener
Chemical family: Polyamines
Specific chemistry: Modified polyamine adduct dissolved in water
Carrier: Water
Physical form: Liquid
Appearance: Slightly hazy colloidal liquid
Color: Gardner ≤6
Solids content: Approximately 55% by weight; current selector literature gives approximately 53-57% and historical product TDS gives 55 ±2%
Water content: Approximately 43-47% by difference from the commercial solids content
Organic solvent content: None in the supplied hardener
Viscosity at 25°C: Approximately 1,000-6,000 mPa·s in current literature; historical product TDS specified approximately 2,000-6,000 cP
Amine value: Approximately 170-210 mg KOH/g
Active hydrogen equivalent weight: Approximately 265 g/eq as supplied
Density at 25°C: Approximately 1.05 g/cm³ / 8.7-8.8 lb/gal
Historical use level with ARALDITE GY 9708-3: Approximately 141 phr
Historical use level with ARALDITE GY 9513 modified epoxy resin: Approximately 131 phr in a clear-coating starting formulation
Primary functions: Curing agent, hardener and crosslinker
Primary current end uses: 2K coatings, floorings, mortars, primers and waterborne coatings
Material compatibility: Metal substrate and mineral substrate
Current labeling claims: Organic-solvents-free, VOC-free and SVHC-chemicals-free
Primary current product features: Corrosion resistance, excellent adhesion, fast cure, improved washability and low odor
Additional technical features: Visible end of pot life, low color, good color stability, fast set, low-temperature cure and high-humidity cure with adequate ventilation
Self-leveling capability: Suitable for self-leveling flooring formulations
Highly filled systems: Suitable for highly filled flooring and mortar systems
Modifier function: Can be used to modify other waterborne curing agents that do not provide a visible end of pot life
Low-temperature performance: Fast-drying and curing films can be formulated around approximately 10°C in humid environments with adequate ventilation
Historical clear-coating tack-free time at 23°C / 50% RH: Approximately 1.5 hours in the cited starting formulations
Historical clear-coating cure-through time at 23°C / 50% RH: Approximately 3.5-4.0 hours in the cited starting formulations
Historical clear-coating tack-free time at 10°C / 75% RH: Approximately 4.0 hours in the cited starting formulations
Historical clear-coating cure-through time at 10°C / 75% RH: Approximately 8.0-13.5 hours depending on the cited resin system
CAS Number: Commercial waterborne modified 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 complete commercial mixture
Molecular Weight: Variable / not applicable as one fixed molecular weight
ARADUR 3985 should be treated as a proprietary aqueous modified polyamine-adduct curing-agent mixture rather than as one discrete low-molecular-weight chemical. The active curing-agent phase contains a distribution of amine-containing structures and is supplied in a substantial water phase, so assigning one molecular formula or molecular weight to the complete grade would be chemically misleading. The current SDS should be used whenever formal component identities, concentration ranges, CAS numbers, hazard classifications or transport data are required.

WHAT IS ARADUR 3985?

ARADUR 3985 is a reactive waterborne epoxy hardener designed to combine practical aqueous formulation with a clearly observable pot-life endpoint. Many waterborne epoxy systems continue to look fluid even after chemical advancement has progressed far enough to reduce coating quality. ARADUR 3985 is deliberately formulated so that the mixed system develops a visible end of pot life through gelation, helping applicators recognize when the material has reached the end of its usable working period.
The product is particularly versatile because it can be used in conventional waterborne primers and coatings as well as self-leveling flooring, highly filled floors, mortar-type systems and thick-film civil-engineering formulations. Current information also identifies both metal and mineral substrates, which means the product can support concrete-focused systems as well as compatible protective coatings for prepared metallic surfaces.

ARADUR 3985 is supplied at approximately 55% solids in water and contains no organic solvent in the commercial hardener. This delivery form supports zero-VOC and low-emission formulation strategies while maintaining a moderate viscosity that is easier to handle than many highly concentrated waterborne amine adducts.
The grade also has a useful secondary role as a modifier. Documentation specifically states that ARADUR 3985 can be blended into other waterborne curing-agent packages that lack an obvious pot-life endpoint, allowing the formulator to introduce a more visible gelation signal into the system.

MODIFIED POLYAMINE ADDUCT CHEMISTRY

ARADUR 3985 belongs to the modified polyamine-adduct class of epoxy curing agents. Polyamine adducts are produced by partially reacting amine functionality with suitable reactive compounds before the hardener is supplied for final use. The pre-reaction increases molecular size and changes compatibility, volatility, viscosity and surface behavior compared with the original unmodified amine.
The modified adduct retains reactive primary and secondary amine hydrogens. These sites react with epoxy groups in the resin after the two components are mixed. The pre-adduct structure also helps make the active hardener compatible with an aqueous carrier and supports the colloidal solution form used in waterborne formulations.

Because the active material is a proprietary distribution of molecular species rather than one pure compound, the commercial grade is best characterized through functional properties such as active-hydrogen equivalent weight, amine value, viscosity, solids, density and cure behavior.
The waterborne form changes more than handling. Film formation requires both chemical crosslinking and physical removal of carrier water, so cure behavior must always be considered together with drying and coalescence.

HOW EPOXY CURING WORKS

Epoxy resins contain reactive oxirane rings. Primary and secondary amine hydrogens in ARADUR 3985 attack these rings and open them, forming carbon-nitrogen bonds and hydroxyl groups. Repeated reaction between multifunctional resin and curing-agent molecules creates a three-dimensional thermoset network.
The initially fluid mixture therefore progresses through molecular growth, viscosity increase, gelation and solid-state cure. The visible gel endpoint that characterizes ARADUR 3985 systems is a direct consequence of this network growth becoming macroscopically apparent.

Chemical reaction continues after the coating becomes tack-free or appears dry. Final hardness, chemical resistance, mechanical strength and water resistance develop as conversion increases.
In a waterborne system, the process also depends on water evaporation and film formation. The epoxy phase must form a continuous coating while the reactive network develops. Inadequate ventilation, excessive water or unsuitable film thickness can slow physical drying even when chemical cure is progressing.

VISIBLE END OF POT LIFE

The visible end of pot life is one of the defining characteristics of ARADUR 3985. The literature repeatedly emphasizes that formulations based on this curing agent show an observable gelation endpoint rather than remaining deceptively fluid beyond their useful application period.
This is operationally important because a waterborne epoxy can sometimes retain low apparent viscosity after substantial chemical advancement. If such material is applied late, flow, gloss, adhesion or cure uniformity may suffer even though the mixture still appears workable.

With ARADUR 3985, the system moves toward an obvious gel, giving the applicator a more practical signal that the remaining material should no longer be used. This can reduce the risk of applying over-aged material.
It is also identified ARADUR 3985 as a modifier for other waterborne hardeners that do not provide this visible endpoint. Blending should be treated as development of a new curing-agent package because AHEW, amine value, viscosity and cure kinetics all change.

POT LIFE AND GEL TIME

Current literature gives an approximate gel-time value around 60 minutes for ARADUR 3985 under its standardized test conditions. Historical clear-coating starting formulations using ARALDITE GY 9708-3 or GY 9513 reached gel around 75 minutes at 25°C in the reported mixed-viscosity profile.
These values are useful for comparison but should not be treated as one universal field pot life. Resin chemistry, batch size, temperature, water content, pigments, fillers and application method can all change the practical working period.

Gel time and usable pot life are related but not identical. A formulation may lose ideal leveling or self-leveling behavior before full gelation, especially in highly filled systems where viscosity is already elevated.
Production procedures should therefore define both maximum elapsed time and acceptable application behavior. Once the system has advanced beyond its validated working period, adding water should not be used to restore it because dilution cannot reverse chemical crosslinking.

SOLIDS CONTENT

ARADUR 3985 is supplied at approximately 55% solids. Current selector literature gives a range around 53-57%, while the historical dedicated TDS states 55 ±2% by weight.
This means roughly half of the commercial product is active non-volatile curing-agent material and the balance is principally water. The supplied form is therefore more concentrated than some 50% waterborne hardeners but less concentrated than 80% solids grades.

Solids content affects stoichiometry, application viscosity, water load and dry-film build. A lower-than-normal solids level would deliver less reactive hardener and more water per unit weight, while a higher level would increase active concentration and usually raise viscosity.
Incoming quality control should therefore treat solids as a core parameter rather than a descriptive value.

VISCOSITY

Current selector literature lists ARADUR 3985 at approximately 1,000-6,000 mPa·s at 25°C. An older dedicated TDS specified approximately 2,000-6,000 cP. Both sources characterize the product as relatively fluid for a polymeric waterborne amine hardener.
Moderate viscosity is advantageous in flooring and highly filled mortar systems because the hardener must distribute efficiently through resin, pigments, mineral fillers and aggregate.
Temperature affects viscosity strongly. Cold product becomes thicker and can be harder to pump or meter, while warmer material becomes more fluid and may also react faster after mixing with epoxy resin.
Quality-control viscosity should therefore be measured at the defined temperature and compared with the current agreed product specification rather than an older historical range when there is any difference.

AMINE VALUE

The published amine value is approximately 170-210 mg KOH/g. Amine value measures total basic amine functionality expressed as an equivalent quantity of potassium hydroxide.
This analytical parameter is useful for product identity and batch consistency. A significant shift can indicate composition drift, contamination or degradation.
Amine value is not identical to active-hydrogen equivalent weight because not every basic nitrogen contributes reactive hydrogen in the same way. Stoichiometric calculations should therefore rely on AHEW and validated resin-specific mix ratios.
Amine value remains valuable as part of an incoming QC package together with solids, viscosity, density, color and functional cure response.

ACTIVE HYDROGEN EQUIVALENT WEIGHT

ARADUR 3985 has an active-hydrogen equivalent weight of approximately 265 g/eq as supplied. AHEW represents the mass of commercial curing agent required to provide one equivalent of reactive amine hydrogen.
The value includes the product in its aqueous delivery form. It should not be replaced by a hypothetical dry-solids value unless all calculations are adjusted consistently.
AHEW is used together with the epoxy equivalent weight of the resin to estimate a theoretical stoichiometric starting ratio. It has also been published specific mix ratios for reference epoxy resins, and these are generally more useful than a generic calculation when the exact resin is known.
Changing the hardener level changes residual functionality, flexibility, adhesion, water sensitivity, chemical resistance and cure speed. Any deliberate off-ratio formulation should therefore be validated experimentally.

COLOR AND COLOR STABILITY

ARADUR 3985 has a Gardner color limit of approximately 6 and is described as having low color and good color stability.
This is important in decorative flooring and exhibition-area applications where the binder color can affect light pigments, clear systems or decorative aggregate appearance.
Current information specifically notes that coatings and floorings based on ARADUR 3985 are suitable for decorative applications because of their low color and color stability.
Low initial hardener color does not guarantee unlimited resistance to UV yellowing of the complete epoxy system. Resin type, pigments, light exposure and service temperature also influence long-term color.

LOW ODOR

Low odor is a current product feature and an important advantage of the waterborne delivery form. ARADUR 3985 avoids the strong solvent odor associated with many conventional solvent-cut epoxy hardeners.
This makes the grade attractive for interior flooring, exhibition areas, commercial spaces and civil-engineering work where solvent odor can disrupt nearby activities.
Low odor does not mean that normal chemical hygiene can be omitted. Reactive amine functionality can still create skin, eye and respiratory hazards.
Ventilation is also needed for water removal and for any other volatile component introduced by the resin or additive package.

FAST SET AND FAST CURE

ARADUR 3985 as offering fast set times and fast cure. This property is particularly useful in flooring and civil-engineering applications where the coated area must return to service without excessive delay.
Fast set means the film or mortar develops enough structure to stop flowing and begin resisting disturbance. Full cure requires additional time because crosslinking continues after the material has set.
Historical clear-coating data show tack-free time around 1.5 hours and cure-through around 3.5-4.0 hours at 23°C and 50% relative humidity for the cited resin systems.
The same data demonstrate that low temperature and high humidity slow drying, but the formulations still cured successfully when adequate ventilation was available.

LOW-TEMPERATURE AND HUMID CURE

ARADUR 3985 is specifically described as capable of rapid cure at low temperature and high humidity with adequate ventilation. The current product description refers to fast-drying and curing films in cold environments around 10°C.
Historical clear-coating data at 10°C and 75% relative humidity showed tack-free time of about 4 hours. Cure-through time was approximately 8 hours with the GY 9708-3 reference resin and about 13.5 hours with the GY 9513 modified resin in those specific starting formulations.
These values show that resin choice can significantly affect low-temperature cure even when the same hardener is used.
Low-temperature application still requires careful attention to substrate temperature, dew point and ventilation. A cold surface with condensation can cause adhesion problems regardless of curing-agent reactivity.

ADHESION

Excellent adhesion is one of the current product features for ARADUR 3985. The company specifically notes very good adhesion to concrete and metallic substrates in flooring and coating systems.
Epoxy resins provide strong polar interaction with many surfaces, while the modified polyamine adduct helps wet and cure the resin at the interface.
Concrete should be clean, sound and free from laitance, dust, oil and curing compounds. Metals should be appropriately cleaned and prepared for the required exposure severity.
Good hardener chemistry cannot compensate fully for a weak boundary layer or heavily contaminated substrate.

CORROSION RESISTANCE

Current information lists corrosion resistance among ARADUR 3985's product features. In a metal coating, the cured epoxy network can act as a barrier to water, oxygen and ionic contaminants.
Strong adhesion is important because underfilm corrosion can spread rapidly if the coating loses interfacial contact. ARADUR 3985's good substrate adhesion supports protective primer performance.
Corrosion resistance depends on the complete coating system rather than the curing agent alone. Surface preparation, anti-corrosive pigments, film thickness, porosity and topcoat design all contribute.
Salt-spray or cyclic-corrosion testing should therefore be performed on the final formulation.

IMPROVED WASHABILITY

Improved washability is a current product feature. In cured flooring and coating systems, washability refers to the ability of the surface to withstand cleaning without rapid loss of film integrity or appearance.
Epoxy crosslinking provides a dense polymer network that resists many aqueous cleaning processes once fully cured. Pigment selection, gloss level and surface texture also influence cleanability.
Washability is especially useful in exhibition areas, commercial flooring, workshops and industrial spaces where routine cleaning is expected.
Cleaning resistance should be tested only after adequate cure because early washing can soften or whiten a waterborne epoxy film.

SELF-LEVELING AND HIGHLY FILLED SYSTEMS

ARADUR 3985 as suitable for self-leveling flooring systems. Self-leveling materials must remain fluid enough after placement to flow into a smooth surface while developing enough body to avoid excessive segregation.
The grade is also suitable for highly filled flooring and mortar systems containing large amounts of silica, mineral filler or aggregate. Filler loading can reduce shrinkage, control flow, improve mechanical build and reduce cost.
Particle-size distribution is important. A well-graded filler package can reach high loading with lower binder demand than a poorly graded system.
The visible gel endpoint is particularly useful in self-leveling systems because leveling performance deteriorates as chemical advancement proceeds. Applicators have a clearer signal when the remaining batch has reached the end of its useful life.

THICK-FILM SYSTEMS

ARADUR 3985 for thick-film waterborne coating and flooring systems and states that suitable flooring formulations can be applied up to several millimeters thick.
Thick application provides mechanical build and can help level irregular substrates, but it also increases the distance that water must travel before leaving the system.
Ventilation, filler level and formulation structure therefore become especially important. Trapped water can produce porosity, whitening or weak internal regions if the surface closes before deeper moisture escapes.
Development work should evaluate cure through the full thickness rather than judging only the surface.

APPLICATIONS

Waterborne epoxy primers
ARADUR 3985 can be used in zero- or low-VOC waterborne primers for concrete, mineral and compatible metal substrates. The primer should wet the prepared surface, provide strong adhesion and create a uniform base for subsequent coats.

Concrete primers
Concrete primers are an important application because ARADUR 3985 provides strong adhesion and can be integrated into civil-engineering floor systems. Mechanical surface preparation should remove weak laitance and contamination.

Metal primers
Current compatibility includes metal substrates and the product carries a corrosion-resistance feature. Suitable anti-corrosion pigments can be incorporated where the primer must protect steel or other prepared metals.

Sealers
TDS information specifically lists sealers. Clear or lightly pigmented sealers can protect mineral surfaces and improve cleanability while maintaining a relatively low-odor waterborne application profile.

Waterborne topcoats
ARADUR 3985 can be used in compatible waterborne epoxy coatings where fast cure, low odor and washability are needed. Exterior UV exposure should be considered separately because conventional epoxy networks can chalk under sunlight.

Self-leveling floors
Self-leveling flooring is one of the strongest application areas for ARADUR 3985. The curing agent supports reactive systems that spread into a smooth floor and then develop an obvious end of pot life through gelation.

Highly filled floors
Highly filled flooring systems can incorporate mineral filler or aggregate at high loading while using ARADUR 3985 as the curing component. Filler grading, resin demand and flow should be optimized together.

Thick-layer floors
ARADUR 3985 can be formulated into floor systems applied up to several millimeters thick. Thick layers are useful for resurfacing and mechanical build but require careful water release and through-cure.

Decorative flooring
Current information notes decorative applications such as exhibition areas because ARADUR 3985 offers low color and good color stability. Pigments, colored aggregate and decorative flakes can be used in compatible systems.

Exhibition-area floors
Low odor, decorative appearance and good washability make ARADUR 3985 relevant to exhibition spaces and similar commercial environments. Cure scheduling should allow the floor to reach adequate hardness before traffic.

Industrial flooring
Factories, workshops and utility areas can use ARADUR 3985-based epoxy floors where chemical resistance, adhesion and cleanability are required. Aggregate can be added for wear resistance or slip control.

Warehouse flooring
Warehouse floors can benefit from thick self-leveling or highly filled systems. Heavy traffic and pallet movement may require hard aggregate and controlled film thickness.

Workshop floors
Epoxy flooring based on ARADUR 3985 can provide resistance to oils, cleaning solutions and industrial dirt when the resin system is properly formulated and fully cured.

Commercial flooring
Retail back-of-house areas, corridors and public spaces can use waterborne epoxy where low odor and decorative appearance are desirable.

Epoxy mortars
Epoxy mortars can be formulated with a high aggregate fraction to provide compressive strength and dimensional stability. The binder must fully wet the aggregate while maintaining workable placement consistency.

Repair mortars
Concrete repair formulations can use ARADUR 3985 where waterborne handling and good adhesion are beneficial. Structural repair performance should be verified through compressive, bond and durability testing.

Floor screeds
Resin-rich or highly filled screed systems can use ARADUR 3985 to create thicker floor layers. Leveling, working time and water release need to be balanced for the layer thickness.

Floor toppings
Broadcast or troweled floor toppings can be developed where aggregate provides mechanical wear resistance and the epoxy binder provides adhesion and chemical resistance.

Concrete resurfacing
Damaged or uneven concrete floors can be resurfaced with compatible ARADUR 3985 systems after weak material is removed and the substrate is properly prepared.

Mineral-substrate coatings
Current product information lists mineral substrates. Concrete, cementitious panels and masonry can be coated where moisture, porosity and surface strength have been evaluated.

Concrete wall coatings
Vertical concrete and masonry coatings can use ARADUR 3985 where rheology is adjusted to prevent sag. High humidity and low temperature can lengthen drying, so ventilation remains important.

Barrier coatings
Cured epoxy can provide a dense barrier against water and industrial contaminants. Filler and pigment selection can further reduce permeability where required.

Protective metal coatings
ARADUR 3985 can be used in compatible protective metal systems where corrosion resistance and adhesion are desired. Surface preparation determines much of the long-term performance.

Machinery coatings
Equipment frames, machine housings and industrial components can use waterborne epoxy coatings where low odor and good washability are useful.

Factory-applied coatings
Controlled factory environments can provide the ventilation and temperature needed for reliable waterborne drying. ARADUR 3985 can be used where fast set and visible end of pot life simplify production control.

Maintenance coatings
Industrial maintenance projects can use ARADUR 3985-based systems where a waterborne alternative to solvent-rich epoxy is preferred. The exposure category should determine primer, build coat and topcoat design.

Primer-sealers
A thin primer-sealer can reduce concrete absorbency and improve uniformity before application of a thicker self-leveling system. The primer should remain compatible with the subsequent coat.

Clear coatings
Historical data include clear-coating starting formulations with GY 9708-3 and GY 9513. These formulations demonstrated visible viscosity rise and semi-gloss film formation under the stated test conditions.

Zero-VOC coatings
ARADUR 3985 itself contains no organic solvent and is positioned for zero-VOC waterborne systems. All other ingredients must also be evaluated before the final product is labeled zero-VOC.

Cold-condition coatings
The product can support fast drying and cure around 10°C when ventilation is adequate. Low-temperature field performance should still be verified on the complete formulation.

Humid-condition coatings
ARADUR 3985 can cure under relatively high humidity provided water vapor is removed through adequate air movement. Film thickness should be controlled carefully.

Thermal-shock-resistant flooring systems
Historical selector literature maps ARADUR 3985 to a breathable self-leveling thermal-shock-resistant flooring starting formulation. Thermal-shock performance belongs to the complete formulated system and should not be attributed to the hardener alone.

Breathable floor systems
Historical selector literature also associates ARADUR 3985 with breathable self-leveling floor technology. Vapor transmission depends on complete formulation, pigment volume and film thickness.

Decorative aggregate floors
Low color and good color stability can support decorative aggregate systems where the binder should not strongly discolor the floor.

Chemical-resistant floor systems
Epoxy networks can provide resistance to many oils, cleaners and industrial chemicals. Resistance must be validated against the actual chemical and concentration expected in service.

Washable industrial coatings
Improved washability makes ARADUR 3985 relevant to coatings that undergo routine wet cleaning after full cure.

ARALDITE GY 6010 REFERENCE RATIO

Current high-performance selector literature gives a typical mix ratio of approximately 140 g ARADUR 3985 per 100 g ARALDITE GY 6010 liquid epoxy resin.
This ratio is a useful reference because it reflects the commercial hardener as supplied, including its water content and approximately 265 g/eq AHEW.
The ratio should not be transferred automatically to other epoxy resins. Different EEW values and resin modifications change the required hardener amount and the physical compatibility of the mixed system.
Current resin and hardener documentation should therefore be used whenever an exact production formula is developed.

ARALDITE GY 9708-3 REFERENCE SYSTEM

Historical technical data give approximately 141 parts ARADUR 3985 per 100 parts ARALDITE GY 9708-3 in a clear-coating starting formulation.
ARALDITE GY 9708-3 was identified there as a standard bisphenol-A liquid epoxy resin with an epoxy equivalent weight around 182-192 g/eq.
The formulation also contained approximately 125 parts deionized water. Its mixed viscosity rose from about 93 KU initially to 115 KU after 15 minutes and 136 KU after 30 minutes before reaching gel around 75 minutes.
At 23°C and 50% relative humidity the cited film became tack-free in about 1.5 hours and cured through in about 3.5 hours. At 10°C and 75% relative humidity tack-free time was about 4 hours and cure-through about 8 hours.

ARALDITE GY 9513 REFERENCE SYSTEM

TDS information gives another clear-coating example using approximately 100 parts ARALDITE GY 9513 modified epoxy resin with 131 parts ARADUR 3985 and 125 parts deionized water.
The resin was identified as a modified bisphenol-A liquid epoxy with an epoxy equivalent weight around 196-205 g/eq.
The mixed viscosity began around 92 KU, increased to about 104 KU at 15 minutes and 123 KU at 30 minutes, then reached gel at approximately 75 minutes.
At 23°C and 50% relative humidity the formulation became tack-free in about 1.5 hours and cured through in about 4 hours. At 10°C and 75% relative humidity tack-free time remained around 4 hours but cure-through increased to approximately 13.5 hours.

ARALDITE GY 257 THICK-LAYER SYSTEM

Recent coatings literature associates ARADUR 3985 with ARALDITE GY 257 for thick-layer systems. GY 257 is described in the coating guide as a modified liquid resin without surfactant.
This pairing is consistent with ARADUR 3985's positioning in self-leveling and thick flooring applications where a liquid epoxy phase can support film formation and high build.
The public brochure does not provide one universal production ratio for this pairing. Current product-specific technical documentation should therefore be consulted before formulating.
Thick-layer performance should be evaluated for flow, water release, gel time, cure-through and mechanical strength across the full application thickness.

MODIFIER FOR OTHER WATERBORNE HARDENERS

ARADUR 3985 can be used as a modifier for other waterborne curing agents that do not produce a visible end of pot life.
Adding ARADUR 3985 can make the mixed system progress toward a more obvious gel endpoint, helping applicators identify when the remaining material is no longer suitable for use.
Blending also changes active-hydrogen equivalent weight, amine value, solids and cure speed. The combined hardener package must therefore be recalculated and tested as a new system.
The modifier level should be selected by balancing desired pot-life visibility against film properties and working time.

PIGMENT, FILLER AND AGGREGATE COMPATIBILITY

ARADUR 3985 can be used in pigmented primers, coatings and highly filled flooring systems. Pigments and mineral fillers affect water demand, viscosity, ionic strength and cure behavior.
Common materials can include titanium dioxide, iron oxides, silica, quartz, calcium carbonate, barytes, talc and specialty anti-corrosive pigments.
Self-leveling and mortar flooring systems often use graded silica or other mineral aggregate. Aggregate increases compressive strength, reduces polymer shrinkage and controls cost.
Filler moisture and soluble salts should be controlled because waterborne systems can be sensitive to ionic contamination. Highly acidic or alkaline pigment surfaces can also alter amine behavior.

RHEOLOGY CONTROL

Self-leveling flooring requires controlled rheology rather than simply the lowest possible viscosity. The material must flow enough to smooth itself but resist filler settlement and segregation.
Waterborne rheology modifiers, silica or fine mineral fillers can be used to adjust flow. Excessive structure can reduce self-leveling and trap air.
Vertical coatings require stronger anti-sag behavior than horizontal floors, so the rheology package must reflect application geometry.
Rheology should also be measured through pot life because reactive viscosity increases as gelation approaches.

DEFOAMING AND AIR RELEASE

Waterborne epoxy mixing can entrain air, and highly filled floor systems can trap bubbles between mineral particles. Concrete substrates can also release air from pores after wetting.
Suitable defoamers and air-release additives can reduce pinholes and craters. Excess defoamer can reduce intercoat adhesion or create surface defects, so dosage should be optimized.
Application during stable or falling substrate temperature can sometimes reduce concrete outgassing.
The visible gel endpoint also makes timing important because trapped air becomes increasingly difficult to release as cure advances.

WATER DILUTION

Additional deionized water can be used in ARADUR 3985 formulations where application viscosity requires adjustment. Historical clear-coating starting formulations used substantial added water in combination with liquid epoxy resin.
Water should be introduced in a controlled and repeatable sequence. Localized excessive dilution can destabilize colloidal components or create uneven cure.
More water lowers wet viscosity but also lowers wet-film solids and increases drying demand. Thick flooring systems therefore should not be diluted solely to improve short-term flow.
The optimum water level balances mixing, placement, leveling, film thickness and cure-through.

ORDER OF ADDITION

Two-component waterborne epoxy systems can be sensitive to addition sequence. Resin, pigment grind, water, additives and hardener should be combined in a repeatable order that maintains stability and minimizes foam.
ARADUR 3985 should be dispersed uniformly through the resin phase before application. Localized high hardener concentration can create rapid viscosity rise or inconsistent cure.
Highly filled mortar components may require staged filler addition after resin and hardener are mixed sufficiently to create a uniform binder.
Production procedures should specify mixing time and shear because under-mixing can leave off-ratio regions even when total weighed quantities are correct.

FILM FORMATION AND VENTILATION

Waterborne epoxy film formation involves both chemical crosslinking and physical development of a continuous resin phase. If the resin domains do not form a coherent film, porosity and poor mechanical performance can result.
Adequate ventilation is specifically emphasized for low-temperature and high-humidity cure. Air movement removes water vapor from above the coating and maintains the driving force for evaporation.
Poor ventilation can allow the local atmosphere near the surface to become saturated, greatly slowing physical drying.
Thick coatings require more drying capacity because more carrier water is present per square meter. Ventilation should be sufficient without introducing dust or creating excessive surface skinning.

CONCRETE PREPARATION

Concrete should be mechanically sound, clean and free from oil, curing compound, loose laitance, dust and weak surface material.
Grinding, shot blasting or other mechanical preparation can expose sound concrete and create a profile for mechanical interlocking.
Cracks and movement joints should be assessed before coating. Active structural movement can exceed the strain capability of a rigid epoxy floor and should be treated with an appropriate joint or repair system.
Surface moisture should also be evaluated because thick epoxy systems can be affected by vapor pressure from below.

METAL PREPARATION

Metal substrates should be cleaned of grease, salts, corrosion products and other contamination before ARADUR 3985 coating application.
Abrasive blasting can provide both cleanliness and surface profile for demanding protective service. Less severe environments may use alternative pretreatment depending on the specification.
Flash rust can occur in some waterborne metal coatings if unprotected steel remains wet during drying. Pigment and inhibitor selection should therefore be optimized for the metal system.
Corrosion testing should use the actual substrate preparation and film build intended for production.

CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE

Fully cured epoxy systems based on ARADUR 3985 can provide useful resistance to water, oils, cleaning agents and many industrial chemicals, depending on resin and formulation.
Chemical resistance depends on crosslink density, resin backbone, fillers and cure completeness. Testing should begin only after full cure.
Highly filled epoxy floors and mortars can develop strong compressive and wear performance when binder and aggregate are balanced correctly.
Self-leveling systems typically use more binder and provide smoother surfaces, while mortar systems use more aggregate and can provide greater mechanical build. Performance should be measured through compressive strength, adhesion, abrasion and impact testing where relevant.

BREATHABILITY AND THERMAL SHOCK

Literature associates ARADUR 3985 with a breathable self-leveling thermal-shock-resistant flooring starting formulation.
Breathability refers to controlled water-vapor transmission through the coating. This can help reduce moisture pressure on concrete substrates where vapor migrates from below.
Thermal shock occurs when rapid temperature change creates differential expansion and contraction between coating and substrate. Filler selection, film thickness, substrate and resin flexibility all influence resistance.
Both breathability and thermal-shock performance belong to the complete formulated floor system and should not be attributed to ARADUR 3985 alone.

QUALITY CONTROL

Important quality-control parameters for ARADUR 3985 include visual appearance, Gardner color, solids content, viscosity, amine value, density and functional cure behavior.
The material should remain a slightly hazy colloidal liquid without abnormal phase separation or sediment. Appearance alone is not enough to judge product quality because normal colloidal haze is characteristic of the grade.
Solids and amine value provide compositional control, while viscosity indicates handling consistency. Functional gel-time testing with a standardized epoxy resin can confirm the visible-end-of-pot-life behavior.
Current documentation should control specification limits whenever newer values differ from historical TDS information.

TDS, SDS AND COA

The current Technical Data Sheet, product page or selector guide should be used to confirm present product properties, use levels and application guidance.
The Safety Data Sheet governs formal hazard classification, composition disclosure, first aid, firefighting, handling, storage, transport and disposal.
The Certificate of Analysis provides batch-specific controlled values where supplied.
Historical technical documents are valuable for understanding formulation behavior and comparative data, but they should not replace current regulatory or specification documents.

SAFETY AND HANDLING

ARADUR 3985 is a reactive amine curing agent and should be handled according to the current SDS. Waterborne and solvent-free delivery reduces conventional solvent exposure but does not eliminate hazards associated with reactive amine chemistry.
Suitable chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection and protective clothing should be selected through workplace risk assessment. Direct skin and eye contact should be avoided.
Good ventilation is important during mixing and application, especially for spray operations or thick flooring work in enclosed spaces.
The complete mixed coating can present different hazards from the separate hardener because resin, pigments and additives contribute their own classifications.

FIRST AID

After significant skin contact, contaminated skin should be washed promptly according to the current SDS, and contaminated clothing should be removed where appropriate.
If product enters the eyes, immediate and prolonged rinsing with clean water should begin and medical attention should be obtained according to SDS instructions.
If mist or aerosol is inhaled and symptoms occur, the affected person should be moved to fresh air and appropriate medical advice obtained.
After accidental ingestion, follow the current SDS and medical guidance rather than relying on generic amine information.

SPILL MANAGEMENT

Spilled ARADUR 3985 can create a slippery surface because it is an aqueous polymeric liquid. The spill should be contained promptly.
Personnel should use the protective equipment specified in the SDS. Suitable absorbent or pumping methods can be used depending on spill size.
Uncontrolled release to drains, soil or surface water should be prevented.
Recovered material and contaminated absorbent should be disposed of according to applicable local requirements.

FIRE RESPONSE

Although ARADUR 3985 is waterborne and contains no organic solvent, the organic amine-adduct fraction can decompose or burn under severe heating.
Combustion of organic amine materials can generate carbon oxides, nitrogen-containing decomposition products and other hazardous fumes.
Fire response, extinguishing media and firefighter protection should follow the current SDS and site emergency procedures.

STORAGE

ARADUR 3985 should be stored in tightly closed original packaging in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place according to current supplier documentation.
Waterborne hardeners should be protected from temperature extremes, contamination and unnecessary water loss. Freezing can damage some aqueous polymer systems, while excessive heat can accelerate aging.
The exact current storage temperature range and shelf life should be taken from the current TDS or container documentation rather than assumed from related ARADUR grades.
Material should be equilibrated to a suitable processing temperature before viscosity-sensitive metering or mixing.

REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS

Current information identifies ARADUR 3985 as organic-solvents-free, VOC-free and SVHC-chemicals-free. These claims are time-sensitive and should be supported by current supplier declarations when used formally.
The commercial grade is a proprietary mixture, so chemical-inventory and hazard status depend on its full current composition and regional regulations.
Use in flooring, mortars or civil engineering does not automatically establish food-contact, potable-water or other specialized regulatory approval.
Current REACH, TSCA and other inventory statements should be obtained documentation when needed for compliance.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Waterborne solvent-free curing-agent technology can significantly reduce conventional solvent emissions and application odor.
Uncured amine-containing material should nevertheless not be discharged directly into soil, drains or surface water.
Cleaning water from epoxy-flooring operations can contain hardener, resin, pigments and fillers and should be managed as process waste under applicable rules.
Fully cured epoxy has different mobility and reactivity from uncured components, but disposal requirements remain jurisdiction-specific.

COMMON FORMULATION PROBLEMS

Pot life shorter than expected
High material temperature, large batch size, reactive pigment or faster resin chemistry can accelerate gelation. Standardize temperature and batch size before altering the formulation.

Poor self-leveling
Excessive filler, too much rheology modifier, low temperature or late-pot-life application can prevent smooth flow. Adjust rheology and apply within the validated working period.

Slow cure-through
Low temperature, high humidity, poor ventilation or excessive water can slow through-cure. Improve air movement and reduce unnecessary dilution.

Trapped water
Thick films can retain moisture if the surface closes too quickly. Optimize film thickness, ventilation and filler balance.

Foaming
High-speed mixing, porous concrete outgassing or unsuitable defoamer can create bubbles. Improve mixing technique and air release.

Poor adhesion
Oil, dust, curing compounds, salts, rust or weak concrete laitance can block contact with the substrate. Correct surface preparation before changing hardener chemistry.

Poor corrosion resistance
Inadequate metal preparation, low film thickness, pinholes or unsuitable pigment package can reduce protection. Evaluate the complete primer system.

Color variation
Uneven mix ratio, different pot-life age between batches or substrate absorption can create appearance differences. Standardize batch preparation and application timing.

Loss of gloss
Late-pot-life application, foam, surface roughness or poor film formation can reduce gloss. Apply fresh mixed material within the defined window.

Excessive viscosity
Cold material, high filler loading or reactive advancement can raise viscosity. Confirm temperature and elapsed time before adding water.

Sagging
Excess water or insufficient rheology can cause vertical flow. Adjust dilution and rheology for wall coatings.

Soft film
Incorrect resin-hardener ratio, incomplete cure or retained water can leave the film soft. Verify stoichiometry and cure conditions.

Poor chemical resistance
Incomplete cure, unsuitable resin or off-ratio formulation can reduce resistance. Test the fully cured system under actual exposure conditions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is ARADUR 3985?
ARADUR 3985 is a waterborne modified polyamine-adduct epoxy curing agent supplied at approximately 55% solids in water.

Does ARADUR 3985 contain acetic acid?
The product TDS information states that ARADUR 3985 contains no acetic acid.

What is the solids content?
Approximately 53-57% in current selector literature; the dedicated historical TDS gives 55 ±2%.

What is the viscosity?
Current literature gives approximately 1,000-6,000 mPa·s at 25°C; the older dedicated TDS specified approximately 2,000-6,000 cP.

What is the amine value?
Approximately 170-210 mg KOH/g.

What is the active hydrogen equivalent weight?
Approximately 265 g/eq as supplied.

What is the density?
Approximately 1.05 g/cm³ at 25°C.

What is the main special feature of ARADUR 3985?
It provides a visible end of pot life through gelation, helping users identify when the mixed system is no longer suitable for application.

What is the typical selector mix ratio?
Literature gives approximately 140 g ARADUR 3985 per 100 g ARALDITE GY 6010 liquid epoxy resin.

What use level was published with ARALDITE GY 9708-3?
Historical TDS information gives approximately 141 phr.

Can ARADUR 3985 be used with modified epoxy resin?
Yes. TDS states that ARADUR 3985 is compatible with modified and unmodified epoxy resins.

Can ARADUR 3985 be used for self-leveling floors?
Yes. Current information specifically identifies self-leveling flooring as an application.

Can it be used in highly filled systems?
Yes. It can be formulated into highly filled flooring systems and mortars.

How thick can ARADUR 3985 flooring systems be applied?
Suitable formulations can be applied up to several millimeters thick.

Can ARADUR 3985 cure at low temperature?
Yes. Fast drying and cure around 10°C in humid conditions when adequate ventilation is provided.

Can ARADUR 3985 modify another waterborne hardener?
Yes. It can be used to modify waterborne curing agents that do not provide a visible end of pot life.

What are the main current end uses?
2K coatings, floorings, mortars, primers and waterborne coatings.

Is ARADUR 3985 suitable for decorative flooring?
Yes. low color and good color stability and specifically mentions decorative applications such as exhibition areas.

Does ARADUR 3985 have one CAS number?
No single CAS number should be assigned to the complete proprietary commercial mixture without confirmation from the current SDS.

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

FINAL TECHNICAL SUMMARY

ARADUR 3985 is a modified polyamine-adduct curing agent dissolved in water for zero-VOC two-component epoxy primers, sealers, coatings, floorings and civil-engineering systems. The commercial product is supplied at approximately 55% solids and contains no organic solvent; historical dedicated TDS information also states that it contains no acetic acid.
Current literature gives approximately 1,000-6,000 mPa·s viscosity at 25°C, while the older dedicated TDS specified 2,000-6,000 cP. The published amine value is approximately 170-210 mg KOH/g, active-hydrogen equivalent weight is approximately 265 g/eq and density is around 1.05 g/cm³.
The current product page identifies 2K coatings, floorings, mortars, primers and waterborne coatings as end uses and lists both metal and mineral substrates. It is noted corrosion resistance, excellent adhesion, fast cure, improved washability and low odor.

The defining formulation advantage of ARADUR 3985 is its visible end of pot life. Mixed systems advance toward an obvious gelation endpoint, providing a practical signal that material should no longer be applied.
ARADUR 3985 can also be used as a modifier for other waterborne curing agents that do not show a visible endpoint. Any such blend must be recalculated and tested because AHEW, solids, viscosity and cure behavior change.
Current high-performance selector literature gives a typical ratio around 140 g ARADUR 3985 per 100 g ARALDITE GY 6010. Historical dedicated TDS information gives 141 phr with GY 9708-3 and 131 phr with GY 9513 in clear-coating starting formulations.
Historical clear-coating examples reached gel at approximately 75 minutes. At 23°C and 50% relative humidity they became tack-free in about 1.5 hours and cured through in roughly 3.5-4.0 hours.

At 10°C and 75% relative humidity, the cited formulations remained capable of cure, with tack-free time around 4 hours and cure-through around 8.0-13.5 hours depending on resin. This supports current positioning of ARADUR 3985 for cold and humid conditions when adequate ventilation is available.
Self-leveling flooring is a primary strength of the grade. It is also identified highly filled floors and mortars and states that suitable systems can be applied up to several millimeters thick.
Low Gardner color and good color stability make ARADUR 3985 appropriate for decorative flooring and exhibition-area applications. Current product literature specifically calls out this use.

Literature also associates ARADUR 3985 with breathable self-leveling thermal-shock-resistant flooring starting formulations. Breathability and thermal-shock resistance belong to the complete formulated system and should be validated at the intended film thickness.
Thick waterborne systems require careful water management. Ventilation, temperature, relative humidity, filler loading and film thickness all influence cure-through and final film quality.
Corrosion resistance on metal depends on surface preparation, primer design, pigment package and film continuity. ARADUR 3985 provides the reactive binder network and strong adhesion but does not replace corrosion-inhibitive pigments or proper steel preparation.

Quality control should include appearance, Gardner color, solids, viscosity, amine value, density and functional gel behavior.ARADUR 3985 is a proprietary commercial mixture and should not be assigned an invented single molecular formula, molecular weight, CAS number or EC number. Product-specific SDS documentation should control formal chemical identity and hazard classification.

ARADUR 3985 should be handled as a reactive amine hardener despite its waterborne and solvent-free form. Appropriate gloves, eye protection, ventilation and SDS-based procedures remain necessary.
For ARADUR 3985 technical specifications, application guidance, TDS, SDS, COA and formulation information, contact ATAMAN KIMYA with the intended epoxy resin, substrate, floor or coating thickness and required service properties.

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