Cobalt Octoate Promoter

Product Overview

Cobalt Octoate is a cobalt-based metal carboxylate widely used as an promoter in curing systems for unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins. Supplied as a 6% cobalt solution in solvents such as xylene or mineral spirits, it significantly accelerates the decomposition of peroxide catalysts (e.g., MEKP), allowing efficient cure at room temperature.

Key Features & Benefits

• Apparent Assay: 6% cobalt metal content—optimized for consistent cure response

• Colour & Appearance: Clear violet liquid with mobile viscosity (~25 mPa·s at 20 °C); mixes easily with UP resin and styrene

• Density: Approximately 0.95 g/cm³ (range 0.93–0.96 kg/L)

• Flash Point: Above 26 °C, reducing handling risks

• Shelf Life: Best used within 6–9 months when stored below 30 °C

Dosage & Cure Control

• Recommended Dosage:
  Typically 0.05–1.0% by weight based on resin (~0.5–1.0 phr) for room-temperature cure .

• Example Mix: 1 kg resin → ~5–10 g cobalt octoate (6%)

• Cure Behavior:

  • 0.5 phr yields moderate cure times; 1 phr accelerates gelation 

  • Synergizes with MEKP catalyst to control gel time and cure exotherm 

  • Use of DMA or DMA/Cobalt dual accelerators can further accelerate cure in low-temperature or high-volume processes

Typical Applications

• Hand lay-up & spray-up FRP processes

• Filament winding and resin transfer molding (RTM)

• Castings, gelcoats, tooling, and structural laminates—especially where controlled ambient curing is essential 

Safety & Handling

• Classified as flammable liquid (UN 1268, PG III) 

• Moderate health hazard—handle with gloves, goggles, and ensure adequate ventilation

• Store in cool, dry place below 30 °C; shelf life ~6–12 months 

Environmental & Regulatory

• Cobalt compounds are under scrutiny due to potential carcinogenicity, though still permitted in many resin formulations 

• Follow local regulations for disposal and workplace safety