BASF IRGACURE 369 Photoinitiator

Features Of BASF IRGACURE 369 Photoinitiator

1. Efficient UV initiation - Rapid free-radical generation under UV, suitable for colored systems, improving curing speed and through-cure

2. High absorption - Dual absorption peaks, suitable for dark systems, reducing pigment’s curing impact

3. Excellent compounding synergy - Compatible with most monomers/oligomers, compoundable for enhanced surface curing

4. Good thermal stability - Thermally stable, easy-to-disperse powder, suitable for various film thicknesses

5. Imaging/electronic compatibility - Suitable for photoresists/solder masks, ensuring fine-pattern curing, improving resolution

Typical Applications Of BASF IRGACURE 369 Photoinitiator

1. UV-curable colored coatings - Suitable for dark coatings, ensuring curing efficiency and color stability

2. UV ink systems - Offset/screen inks, improving curing speed and surface curing, ideal for thin coats

3. Photoresists & printing plates - Ensuring imaging precision, suitable for printing plates/UV-curable resins

4. Electronic solder masks - PCB solder masks, suitable for fine-pattern curing, improving adhesion/chemical resistance

5. Clear coatings - Clear varnishes, ensuring transparency and long-term weatherability, suitable for outdoor scenarios

Specifications Of BASF IRGACURE 369 Photoinitiator

BASF IRGACURE 369 Photoinitiator – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary mechanism of action for IRGACURE 369?

A: IRGACURE 369 is a Type I photoinitiator that undergoes efficient α-cleavage upon UV irradiation, generating reactive benzoyl and alkyl radicals capable of initiating free-radical polymerization of acrylates and methacrylates.

Q2: In which types of UV-curable formulations is IRGACURE 369 most commonly used?

A: It is widely employed in UV-curable coatings, inks, and adhesives—particularly where high reactivity under medium-pressure mercury lamp output (300–400 nm) and low yellowing are required, such as in clear topcoats and graphic arts applications.

Q3: How does IRGACURE 369 compare to other benzoin ether-type initiators in terms of stability and performance?

A: Unlike traditional benzoin ethers, IRGACURE 369 offers significantly improved thermal and storage stability while maintaining high photoreactivity, reducing the risk of premature decomposition during formulation handling or storage.

Q4: Is IRGACURE 369 suitable for use in formulations intended for food-contact applications?

A: IRGACURE 369 is not generally recommended for direct food-contact applications unless specifically evaluated and approved within the full regulatory context of the final cured product, as its suitability depends on migration behavior, post-cure conditions, and applicable regional compliance requirements.

Q5: What factors influence the optimal dosage of IRGACURE 369 in a given formulation?

A: Dosage depends on multiple factors including substrate absorbance, film thickness, UV source intensity and spectral output, presence of pigments or additives, and desired cure speed—typically used at low concentrations, with general ranges from 0.1% to 2% by weight relative to total formulation solids.