Catalyst

chemical GROUP

Acid / Blocked Acid Catalysts and Tin-Free Catalysts

Catalysts play a crucial role in accelerating crosslinking reactions in coatings, inks, and adhesives. Traditional catalysts such as tin-based or strong mineral acids often raise environmental, safety, and regulatory concerns.

They provide excellent film hardness, chemical resistance, and durability while complying with global environmental standards. These next-generation catalysts are ideal for manufacturers seeking to reduce heavy metal usage and improve sustainability in coating systems — especially in automotive, industrial, and electronics applications.

At Kemkote, our Acid / Blocked Acid Catalysts and Tin-Free Catalysts from King Industries [Nacure, K-Cure, K-Pure, K-Kat catalyst (Tin free catalyst), Nacorr, K-Sperse] offer high-performance and sustainable alternatives designed for modern eco-friendly formulations.

Key Benefits:

Tin-free formulations reduce heavy metal contamination and comply with regulations.

Blocked acid systems release catalyst only at curing temperature, reducing odor, corrosion, and storage instability.

Formaldehyde-free and low-VOC, supporting cleaner production and safer workplaces.

Designed for energy-efficient curing at lower bake temperatures.

Environmental friendly and sustainable supply chain ready.

1. Acid Catalyst

Function: Promotes crosslinking and curing in amino, epoxy, polyester, and melamine systems by catalyzing condensation reactions
Features:

Fast curing and excellent film hardness

Enhanced gloss and chemical resistance

Available in strong and mild acid grades to suit various resin systems

Used where fast bake and high productivity are needed

Recommended for:
Automotive OEM and refinish coatings, industrial enamels, and appliance coatings

2. Blocked Acid Catalyst

Function: A safer alternative to free acid catalysts. The acid functionality is “blocked” and only released during the curing stage at elevated temperatures.
Features:

Improves shelf life and formulation stability

Prevents early reaction or gelling in two-component systems

Controlled activation during curing — ideal for sensitive resins

Provides smooth film and reduced yellowing

Recommended for:
High-solids coatings, coil coatings, and heat-cured automotive finishes

3. Tin-free Catalysts

Function: Replaces conventional tin catalysts (such as DBTDL) used in urethane, polyester, and alkyd systems.
Features:

Heavy metal-free, environmentally safe alternative

Excellent reactivity and selectivity for urethane curing

Compatible with water-borne and solvent-borne systems

Prevents discoloration and improves storage stability

Safer handling and disposal compared to organotin catalysts

Recommended for:
Automotive coatings, adhesives, sealants, and flexible PU systems