In the manufacturing industry, issues during the production process often affect the final product's quality. This article explores the catalyst poisoning problems encountered by customers in 2024 during the silicone encapsulants process for power supplies and how we assist them by replacing them with GoodGi's fiberglass sleeving. We will share the testing process and its results, and provide fundamental knowledge about catalyst poisoning and prevention methods. Finally, we will introduce how our company, GoodGi, helps solve similar issues and offer opportunities for further collaboration.

Catalyst Poisoning Issues in Encapsulants：

This power supply manufacturer assembled fiberglass sleeving and immersed it in a 1:1 two-part silicone from Dow Inc. After baking, a severe catalyst poisoning problem occurred, including platinum catalyst poisoning. Specifically, the silicone near the sleeving remained uncured (as shown in the image below), resulting in a defect rate of up to 100%.

▼ The image below shows that the customer tested both new and old sleeving. The GoodGi fiberglass sleeving cured normally after silicone encapsulation; however, the silicone near the competitive product's sleeving remained uncured regardless of whether a cleaning agent was used or not.

What is Catalyst Poisoning?

Catalyst Poisoning refers to the phenomenon where the activity of a catalyst is reduced or completely lost due to interference from certain substances during a chemical reaction.

What is Platinum Poisoning?

Platinum Poisoning is a form of catalyst poisoning. In the chemical curing reaction between silicone and platinum catalysts, the activity of the platinum catalyst is inhibited, leading to incomplete or failed curing of the silicone.

Causes of Catalyst Poisoning in Encapsulants

• Material Contamination: This refers to the presence of impurities or contaminants in the raw materials that can interfere with catalyst activity. For example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air, grease, or dirt on hands can all potentially disrupt the curing reaction.

• Incompatible Chemicals: Certain chemicals react with the catalyst, reducing its effectiveness. For example, when silicone comes into contact with hydrogen sulfide, thiols, phosphates, amines, or compounds such as lead or tin, it can lead to curing issues.

• Incorrect Operating Conditions: Inappropriate temperature, humidity, or reaction conditions can impair catalyst performance.

• Material Degradation: Using expired or degraded materials can affect the proper functioning of the catalyst.

How GoodGi Solves Encapsulant Catalyst Poisoning Issues

GoodGi has the capability for independent manufacturing and quality monitoring, and can perform environmental simulation tests according to customer requirements to ensure product performance in real-world applications.

In this case, we conducted tests on GoodGi's fiberglass sleeving according to the customer's curing conditions:

• Vacuum: -40 kPa, 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute stand time.

• Baking: 60–65°C, for 75 minutes.

• Encapsulation Depth Simulation: Approximately 5 cm.

We poured silicone into a paper cup, inserted the sleeving, and after curing, cut open the paper cup to inspect the results and ensure that the sleeving performs well under the specified conditions.

Finally, cross-testing revealed that the surface of the competitor's silicone sleeving retained unreacted catalyst inhibitors, leading to improper chemical reaction and curing of the encapsulation silicone that came into contact with the sleeving.

Preventive Measures for Encapsulant Catalyst Poisoning

1. Avoid Contaminants:

   • When using platinum-catalyzed silicone, ensure that the work environment is clean and avoid contact with sulfur-containing, phosphorus-containing, amine compounds, and other substances that may cause platinum poisoning.

   • Use dust-free gloves during handling to prevent skin contact with the silicone.

2. Proper Mixing:

   • Mix components A and B strictly according to the ratios specified in the product instructions, ensuring thorough mixing. Use dedicated mixing tools and containers to avoid cross-contamination.

3. Control Environmental Conditions:

   • Perform curing operations under appropriate temperature and humidity conditions. Typically, room temperature (20-25°C) and moderate humidity (40-60% relative humidity) provide the best curing environment.

4. Use Materials Within Their Shelf Life:

   • Silicone and catalysts have a defined shelf life, and expired materials may affect curing performance. Ensure that you use fresh materials within their shelf life.

Professional Fiberglass Sleeving Manufacturer: GoodGi

We understand the significant impact that production issues can have on product quality. Platinum catalyst poisoning and catalyst poisoning are complex challenges, but through a stable production process and rigorous quality control, we can help prevent these issues for our customers. As a professional sleeving manufacturer, GoodGi ensures that our fiberglass silicone sleeving surfaces are completely clean and free from catalyst residues. With GoodGi's extensive experience and technical support, we provide high-quality samples and testing services tailored to specific needs to help customers identify problems and prevent recurrence of undesirable phenomena.

If you encounter similar issues or have any questions about our sleeving, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to offer professional advice and solutions, ensuring that your production process is smooth and efficient.