CYCAT 296-9

CYCAT 296-9 is a unique clear liquid acid catalyst used to accelerate the cure of Cymel amino resins at normal baking temperatures and to allow the curing of clear topcoats and enamels in a relatively low temperature range.
CYCAT 296-9 is used in water- & solvent-borne and high solids systems, primers and topcoats.
CYCAT 296-9 is commonly applied in industrial coating formulations, particularly for metal finishes and high-solid systems.

CAS Number: 26644-00-8

Synonyms: CYCAT 296-9, CYCAT 296-9 solution, Acid catalyst 296-9, Phosphate ester catalyst solution, Isobutanol-based acid catalyst, Amino resin curing catalyst, Melamine curing catalyst solution, Crosslinking acid catalyst (coatings), Industrial coating acid catalyst, Low-temperature curing catalyst, Solvent-borne acid catalyst, Phosphoric acid ester catalyst, Organic acid catalyst for coatings, Clear acid catalyst solution, Amino crosslinking accelerator

CYCAT 296-9 is a phosphate-based acidic catalyst supplied as a clear solution in isobutanol, primarily used to accelerate the curing of amino resins such as melamine-formaldehyde systems.
CYCAT 296-9 promotes efficient crosslinking reactions with hydroxyl-functional binders including alkyd, polyester, and acrylic resins, enabling lower curing temperatures and shorter baking times.

This results in coatings with improved hardness, chemical resistance, and overall durability.
CYCAT 296-9 is commonly applied in industrial coating formulations, particularly for metal finishes and high-solid systems.
However, excessive use may negatively affect corrosion resistance, and compatibility with basic pigments should be carefully evaluated.

CYCAT 296-9 is an unique, phosphoric acid derivative "mild" catalyst developed to accelerate the cure of Cymel amino resins at normal baking temperatures, and to permit the cure of clear finishes and enamels within relatively low temperature ranges.
Coatings containing CYCAT 296-9, may be cured on low temperature bake schedules to the same hardness as similar uncatalyzed systems which require higher temperatures.
Since the corrosion resistance of finishes containing high levels of catalyst may be lessened, the resistance properties should be carefully checked.

CYCAT 296-9 is a unique acid catalyst developed to accelerate the cure of BEETLE® 1 and CYMEL® 1 amino resins at normal baking temperatures, and to permit the cure of clear finishes and enamels within relatively low temperature ranges.
Cures may be achieved on short schedules of 200°F (93.3°C) with melamine resins such as CYMEL 325, CYMEL 370 or CYMEL 248-8 resins using 2 to 2.5% CYCAT 296-9 on total binder solids.

CYCAT 296-9 has excellent miscibility with resin solutions.
Coatings containing CYCAT 296-9 may be cured on low temperature bake schedules to the same hardness as similar uncatalyzed systems which require higher temperatures. 

CYCAT 296-9 is an unique acid catalyst dissolved in isobutanol developed to accelerate the cure of CYMEL® amino resins at normal baking temperatures, and to permit the cure of clear finishes and enamels within relatively low temperature ranges.
CYCAT 296-9 is a unique clear liquid acid catalyst used to accelerate the cure of Cymel amino resins at normal baking temperatures and to allow the curing of clear topcoats and enamels in a relatively low temperature range.

Coatings containing CYCAT 296-9 can be cured on a low temperature baking schedule to achieve the same hardness as similar non-catalyzed systems that require higher temperatures.
The corrosion resistance of finishes containing high levels of catalyst can be reduced and should be carefully checked for resistance.

CYCAT 296-9 is phosphate-based weak acid catalyst.
CYCAT 296-9 accelerates the cure of industrial paint systems containing high imino and partially alkylated amino resins.

CYCAT 296-9 is suitable for lower bake applications.
CYCAT 296-9 is used in water- & solvent-borne and high solids systems, primers and topcoats.

Recommended at a dosage level of 1-3 %.
Shelf life of CYCAT 296-9 is 1080 days at 32°C.

CYCAT 296-9, a part of CASE Ingredients' additives portfolio, functions primarily as a catalyst within the realm of paints and coatings.
Tailored for applications in industrial and furniture coatings on metal substrates, CYCAT 296-9's formulation as a clear liquid facilitates precise and effective integration into various coating systems.

Uses of CYCAT 296-9:
CYCAT 296-9 is used as an acid catalyst in coating formulations to accelerate the curing of amino resins, particularly melamine-formaldehyde systems.
CYCAT 296-9 is widely applied in industrial coatings for metal surfaces, including automotive finishes, appliances, and general industrial equipment.

CYCAT 296-9 is suitable for solvent-based and high-solid coating systems where lower curing temperatures and faster processing are required.
CYCAT 296-9 is also used in formulations based on alkyd, polyester, and acrylic resins to enhance crosslinking, improving hardness, chemical resistance, and durability of the final coating.

CYCAT 296-9 is particularly effective in accelerating the cure of finishes containing partially alkylated amino resins with hydroxy functional resins such as short oil alkyds, polyester resins and some acrylic resins.
Cures may be achieved on short schedules of 200°F (93.3°C) with melamine resins such as CYMEL® 325, CYMEL® 370 or
CYMEL 248-8 resins using 2 to 2.5 % CYCAT 296-9 on total binder solids.

Applications of CYCAT 296-9:
Coatings containing CYCAT 296-9 may be cured on low temperature bake schedules to the same hardness as similar uncatalyzed systems which require higher temperatures.
Since the corrosion resistance of finishes containing high levels of catalyst may be lessened, the resistance properties should be carefully checked.

CYCAT 296-9 has excellent miscibility with resin solutions.
However, because of CYCAT 296-9's high acidity, CYCAT 296-9 may react with certain basis type pigments such as zinc oxide, calcium carbonate or other alkaline extender pigments.
Although CYCAT 296-9 may be used in most pigmented formulations, the pigment should be checked for its reactivity with the catalyst.

Formulation Suggestions of CYCAT 296-9:
Excellent package stability is obtained with resin combinations containing CYCAT 296-9.
For maximum stability, use the minimum concentration of CYCAT 296-9 necessary to produce the required acceleration of cure and keep the initial viscosity as low as practicable.

Higher levels of primary alcohols are recommended than would normally be used in uncatalyzed systems.
The alcohol level should be at least 20 % to 30 % of total solvent.
Lower molecular weight alcohols such as methanol or ethanol have a more stabilizing effect than higher molecular weight analogs such as butanol.

Calculations of catalyst level should be on total resin content because extension of the amino resin with other resins serves to dilute the effective catalyst concentration.

Benefits of CYCAT 296-9:
CYCAT 296-9 enables lower curing temperatures, reducing energy consumption and allowing heat-sensitive substrates to be coated effectively.
CYCAT 296-9 accelerates crosslinking reactions, leading to shorter baking times and improved production efficiency.

CYCAT 296-9 enhances coating hardness, providing better scratch and abrasion resistance.
CYCAT 296-9 improves chemical resistance, making coatings more durable against solvents, moisture, and environmental exposure.

CYCAT 296-9 offers good compatibility with alkyd, polyester, and acrylic systems, ensuring formulation flexibility.
CYCAT 296-9's controlled reactivity helps maintain storage stability and prevents premature curing in coating formulations.

Stability and Reactivity of CYCAT 296-9:

Chemical stability:
Stable under normal temperature and storage conditions.

Reactivity:
May react with strong bases.
May undergo exothermic reactions during curing or with basic compounds.

Conditions to avoid:
Heat.
Open flames.

Moisture.
Strong bases.

Incompatible materials:
Strong bases.
Alkaline pigments such as ZnO and CaCO₃.
Strong oxidizing agents.

Hazardous decomposition products:
Carbon oxides (CO, CO₂) may form.
Irritating fumes may be released under fire or high heat.

Handling and Storage of CYCAT 296-9:

Handling:
Use in well-ventilated areas.
Avoid inhalation of vapors.
Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.

Precautions:
Keep away from ignition sources due to solvent content such as isobutanol.

Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.

Storage conditions:
Avoid excessive heat.
Avoid freezing conditions.

Hygiene measures:
Wash hands after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during use.

First Aid Measures of CYCAT 296-9:

Inhalation:
Move to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Skin contact:
Wash immediately with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.

Eye contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Seek medical attention if irritation continues.

Ingestion:
Do not induce vomiting.
Rinse mouth.
Seek medical advice immediately.

Firefighting Measures of CYCAT 296-9:

Suitable extinguishing media:
Foam.
Dry chemical.
Carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Specific hazards:
Flammable solvent vapors may be present.
Combustion may produce toxic gases.

Protective equipment:
Use self-contained breathing apparatus.
Wear full protective gear.

Firefighting instructions:
Cool containers exposed to fire with water spray.

Accidental Release Measures of CYCAT 296-9:

Personal precautions:
Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
Avoid inhalation and contact.

Environmental precautions:
Prevent entry into drains, soil, and waterways.

Containment:
Absorb with inert materials such as sand or vermiculite.

Cleanup:
Collect in suitable containers for disposal according to regulations.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of CYCAT 296-9:

Engineering controls:
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Use local exhaust systems if necessary.

Respiratory protection:
Use appropriate mask or respirator if ventilation is insufficient.

Hand protection:
Wear chemical-resistant gloves such as nitrile.

Eye protection:
Use safety goggles or face shield.

Skin protection:
Wear protective clothing to prevent prolonged contact.

General measures:
Avoid repeated or prolonged exposure.
Follow good industrial hygiene practices.

Identifiers of CYCAT 296-9:
Product name: CYCAT 296-9
Chemical type: Phosphate-based acid catalyst
Physical state: Liquid
Appearance: Clear solution
Solvent: Isobutanol
Manufacturer: allnex

Product Type: Phosphoric Acid
Master Product Number: MITM00206
Product SKUs: ITM14362, ITM14363
CAS: 26644-00-8;512-56-1;7664-38-2;78-83-1

Properties of CYCAT 296-9:
Physical state: Liquid
Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellow solution
Solvent: Isobutanol
Chemical nature: Phosphate ester (acid catalyst)
Density: ~0.95–1.00 g/cm³ (at 25 °C)
Solubility: Soluble in alcohols and most organic solvents
Reactivity: Moderate (controlled acid catalysis)
pH (acid value): Strongly acidic character

Appearance: clear liquid
Acid number, solution: 360 - 385
Colour, Gardner: max. 1

Active content: 50% 
Density approx.: 8.7 lb/gal
Specific Gravity at 77°F (25°C): approx. 1.044