GAC 200

Acrylic Fluid Mediums

GAC 200 (Product #3920)

Hard acrylic extender to improve durability and adhesion to non-porous surfaces

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

GAC 200 is a 100% acrylic polymer used to increase film hardness and adhesion to non-porous, rigid supports. When cured, GAC 200 provides low surface tack [1] and high gloss. It is a popular additive for mural painting to improve durability and weatherability. When used on its own, GAC 200 must be applied and allowed to dry above 70°F/21°C for proper film formation.

GAC 200 Attributes

The hardest and least flexible of all the Golden Acrylic products
Ideal as an additive to acrylic paints to increase film hardness and reduce dry film tack
Dries with high gloss and excellent film clarity
Preferred application is on rigid supports - caution is advised when using GAC 200 on canvas, linen or paper, as rolling or flexing may lead to cracking
Useful in color blends for hard edge techniques - provides less "pull" when masking tape is removed, promoting sharper edges
Improves adhesion to non-porous surfaces; however, some surfaces such as glass and glazed tile will not allow for a permanent bond.
GAC 200 may crack upon drying when used on its own and allowed to dry below 70°F/21°C

Prior to use

GAC 200 should be gently stirred or rocked back and forth. Never shake the bottle as this generates foam which is difficult to eliminate. Foam bubbles can severely affect film transparency, causing a hazy or foggy quality. To prevent foam when brushing, use minimal agitation and force. Do not overwork product on surface.

GAC 200 APPLICATIONS

Mixing with Colors or Mediums

GAC 200 works well as a general-purpose medium to extend colors and increase transparency. To mitigate temperature caveat, mix with acrylic mediums and colors to a maximum of 75% (3 parts GAC 200 to 1 part paint or medium) on rigid supports. To reduce concern for flexibility issues when using on flexible supports, mix with acrylic mediums and colors to a maximum of 50% (1 to 1). These blended ratios should be applied above 49°F/9°C.

Mural Additive

GAC 200 is an ideal additive to increase the hardness and durability of paint films for murals. Adding GAC 200 reduces the pigment load and increases binder in the paint mixture. To improve the exterior durability of the paints, blend in 1 part GOLDEN GAC 200 for every 2 to 4 parts paint (See the GOLDEN Applications Sheet on Murals for further insights).

Improving Adhesion

GAC 200 has peak adhesion performance when used straight out of the container, providing excellent adhesion to many rigid substrates including: aluminum, wood, Hardboard, plexiglass, and Dibond. Note: maximum adhesion on nonporous surfaces such as ceramics or glass, may take up to 3 months.

Clean-Up

Clean tools with soapy water immediately after use and avoid allowing paint to dry in brushes or other tools.

(Not for) Varnishing
GAC 200 and other GAC polymers are intended for use as binders or additives in acrylic paints. They are not intended for use as a final varnish[2] or durable topcoat.

Technical Details

Binder Composition	Acrylic copolymer of methyl methacrylate, and butyl acrylate
MFFT (Minimum Film Formation Temperature)	70°F (21°C)
Tg	25°C (77°F)
pH	8.7-9.0
% Solids	50%
Density	8.84 lbs/gal

Disclaimer

The above information is based on research and testing done by Golden Artist Colors, Inc., and is provided as a basis for understanding the potential uses of the products mentioned. Due to the numerous variables in methods, materials and conditions of producing art, Golden Artist Colors, Inc. cannot be sure the product will be right for you. Therefore, we urge product users to test each application to ensure all individual project requirements are met. While we believe the above information is accurate, WE MAKE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, and we shall in no event be liable for any damages (indirect, consequential, or otherwise) that may occur as a result of a product application

[1] Tack refers to tactile stickiness of dry paint or gluing adhesive.

[2] See the GOLDEN Varnish Information Sheets for more details.