Overview
Photoinitiators start the cure of UV inks, coatings and adhesives. Type I (alpha-cleavage) initiators split directly into radicals when they absorb UV light and are the most efficient choice for most acrylate systems. Type II initiators take a hydrogen from a synergist, usually a tertiary amine, and work best in blends and for surface cure. We supply both families so a formulator can build a blend for clear or pigmented work.
Type I photoinitiators
| Grade | Chemistry | Form | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|
| FLYCURE PI-184 | 1-Hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone (alpha-hydroxyketone) | White crystalline powder | Clear coatings on wood, plastic and metal; overprint varnishes; low yellowing |
| FLYCURE PI-1173 | 2-Hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-1-one (alpha-hydroxyketone) | Colourless to pale yellow liquid | Clear coatings and overprint varnishes; easy liquid dosing |
| FLYCURE PI-907 | 2-Methyl-1-[4-(methylthio)phenyl]-2-morpholinopropan-1-one (alpha-aminoketone) | White to beige powder | Pigmented inks |
| FLYCURE PI-TPO | Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (MAPO) | Pale yellow crystalline powder | Pigmented and white coatings and inks; through-cure |
| FLYCURE PI-819 | Phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (BAPO) | Pale yellow powder | Pigmented wood, plastic, metal and powder coatings; thick films |
Type II photoinitiators
| Grade | Chemistry | Form | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|
| FLYCURE PI-BP | Benzophenone | White crystalline powder | Clear coatings and overprint varnishes, with an amine synergist |
| FLYCURE PI-DETX | 2,4-Diethylthioxanthone | Pale yellow crystalline powder | Pigmented inks; sensitiser for LED and long-wavelength cure |
Several photoinitiators carry hazard classifications under GHS/CLP and some face regulatory restrictions in particular markets. Ask for the SDS and regulatory summary for the grade and market you have in mind.