Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Problem with wax additive in polyester topcoat

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic20820.aspx

By mingo_poppy - 3/18/2016 1:28:52 PM

Hello all,

I have used the wax gelcoat additive (https://www.easycomposites.co.uk/solution-mw-wax-gelcoat-additive) in the top layer of a polyester-covered table. It looked fine when I mixed and poured it, but now that it has cured it has a weird, patchy, greasy-looking surface. It's still transparent but less clear and the shine has gone off it. It feels alright to the touch, though, and definitely isn't tacky.

What have I done wrong here? I used about 2% wax additive but may not have measured it that accurately... I plan to sand off the top layer and redo it but I'm keen to avoid the same problem happening again. I want a smooth, high-gloss finish on the final pour.

Thank you in advance.
By mingo_poppy - 8/8/2016 5:15:20 PM

Hi Dravis,

Thanks for such a quick and helpful answer. It's good to hear that the sanded surface is actually beneficial! I'll have a go and will make sure to degrease first.