For the successful implementation of the painting work , auxiliary agents such as solvents are of no small importance, the use of which is necessary for the preparation of painted surfaces and to give the required consistency to paints and varnishes. In this article we will consider solvent P4, which is one of the most popular and well-known similar materials on the market.
General characteristics
Solvent P4 is an organic solvent that is a clear, colorless liquid (in some cases it may have a yellowish tint) without visible suspended particles. It is characterized by a specific odor and high volatility. The average value of the relative density of the substance is 0.85 g per cubic meter. see. Self-igniting at a temperature of 550 degrees. It is made according to the standards provided by GOST 7827-74. Available in industrial containers - plastic and glass containers (bottles) of various sizes.
Solvent P4: composition
P4 is a mixture of three organic solvents that collectively become even more effective. It includes the following substances:
• toluene - 62%;
• acetone - 26%;
• butyl acetate - 12%.
Due to this composition, the solvent is characterized by fairly good consumer properties and high dissolution efficiency of varnishes and paints. An ingredient such as butyl acetate helps to increase the gloss of films of applied paints and varnishes and prevents their whitening and fading.
Key Solvent Specifications
Solvent P4 (GOST 7827-74) has the following characteristics:
• values of the volatility index for ethyl ether are in the range from 5 to 15;
• the number of coagulation is at least 24%;
• the proportion of water (by weight) is not more than 0.7%;
• acid value does not exceed 0.07 mg KOH / g.
R-4A brand solvent is also available. This reagent and solvent P4 are analogues in technical specifications. However, they are somewhat different in composition, because, according to the requirements of GOST, butyl acetate is not included in the composition of R-4A. Another difference between these grades is that the solvent of the R-4A grade, unlike P4, is able to dissolve XB-124 enamels (protective and gray).
Where is solvent P4 used?
The reagent is used for the cultivation of paints such as PSX LN and LS PLC, the basis for the manufacture of which are polyvinyl chloride chlorinated resins, epoxies, vinyl chloride copolymers and some other film-forming substances.
How to use - how to dilute the paint with solvent P4?
Solvent P4 is added to a specific material (varnish or paint) in small portions until the desired consistency is achieved. The divorced paint (varnish) at the same time needs to be constantly mixed.
After applying the prepared coating, the solvent evaporates, and the film-forming substance, hardening, turns into a protective coating. It is important when working with a solvent to prevent water from entering it, since the acetone included in the mixture can easily mix with it, and this, in turn, will lead to color distortion or whitening of the transparent coating.
P4 Solvent Precautions
It should be remembered that the substance belongs to toxicants and can have a negative effect on the human body, which is inhaled and also penetrates the skin. With long-term exposure, a negative effect of the solvent on bone marrow and blood is possible. In case of prolonged contact with the skin, dermatitis can form.
Given all of the above, work with solvent P4 should be carried out in rooms provided with good ventilation. It is also extremely important to use protective equipment that prevents the effects of harmful substances on the respiratory system, eyes and skin of the hands (respirator, gloves, goggles).
P4, like a number of other solvents, is characterized by a high degree of fire hazard. The mixture is flammable and, in addition, is explosive. Pairs of substances that make up the solvent, which tend to accumulate, are also explosive. Therefore, a prerequisite when working with a solvent is compliance with fire safety requirements.