Triglycidyl isocyanurate is a small epoxy-functional molecule that reacts with carboxyl-terminated polyester, usually at around 7 parts TGIC to 93 parts resin. TGIC polyesters give good flow, wide cure windows, edge coverage and thick films with little gassing. TGIC carries a mutagen classification in Europe, where HAA dominates, while North American shops spray it widely with dust controls in place.
Spec calls for a TGIC polyester, so don't let purchasing swap in the Primid stuff without asking.
When someone says just polyester on an architectural job, they almost always mean a TGIC polyester.
Also heard as
- TGIC polyester
- triglycidyl isocyanurate
Do not mix it up with
- HAA: HAA is the TGIC-free alternative crosslinker; it releases water as it cures and gasses more easily at heavy film builds.
Related terms
HAA
Hydroxyalkylamide, the TGIC-free crosslinker used to cure carboxyl polyester powders.
Polyester powder
Powder based on polyester resin, the standard choice for outdoor parts because it holds color and gloss in sunlight.
Crosslinker
The hardener in a thermoset powder that reacts with the resin to tie it into a network.
Superdurable
Describing polyester powders built with weather-stable acids that hold gloss and color several times longer outdoors.