HomeTechnical Data Specific To Nova Polymers Material
All photopolymer signs require a top coat to be applied.
Many photopolymer signs are surface painted using a variety of custom colors. Signs that are decorated sub surface with paint, digital graphics and materials that incorporate color or patterns in the base substrate all require a clear coat to applied over the photopolymer. This adds the same level of protection as the paint and should be applied accordingly.
According to Matthews Paint Company, it is specified that clear coats and/or paints should have the same amount of coating (4 mil wet/2mil dry).
It should be noted that when using clear coats, the product chosen needs to have a high level of UV protection, needs to be mixed properly and be applied to the manufacturers recommendations.
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Recommended painting procedures for NovAcryl photopolymers
When coating NovAcryl or Nova Polymers, with MATTHEWS ACRYLIC POLYURETHANE, the first step is to clean the polymer. It must be free of any dirt, grease, etc… You may use any of our reducers or isopropyl alcohol
When using MATTHEWS ACRYLIC POLYURETHANE, make sure the surface is clean. Apply one coat of 74-777 TIE BOND and allow to tack up approximately 20 minutes at 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Then topcoat with MAP. It is NOT neccessary to use TIE BOND for good adhesion.
When using VOC compliant MAP, our compliant coating for air regulations, be sure he photopolymer is clean. Then apply our VOC compliant material directly to the PHOTOPOLYMER. No TIE BOND is necessary for good adhesion.
Top coating of MAP and VOC MAP should be done within 72 HOURS. After 72 HOURS. After 72 hours a light scuff sanding with 400 grit sandpaper is required for good adhesion of any top coating.
Complete Matthews Paint Company Substrate Guide
MAP®
Step #1 – Matthews is for Professional Use Only.
Step #2 – Always follow proper safety precautions when using Matthews’s products.
Safe usage requires reading, understanding, and following all label, MSDS, and other product literature before use.
Step #3 – The spray area and substrate must be warm and have adequate airflow.
Application of primers, topcoats, and clear coats should never take place in temperatures under 60F/16C. Substrates should also be brought to or above this temperature guideline before applying any primer or topcoat.
Step #4 – Properly clean substrate.
Professionals don’t even think about priming or painting over any substrate that hasn’t been properly cleaned and prepared. Use proper cleaning products and procedures.
Step #5 – Use the right primer for every specific substrate.
Always use the appropriate primer and application techniques suggested from the Matthews substrate guide.
Step #6 – “When in doubt, test it out.”
Recommend testing first, the process for any new product, primer, or first time application procedures before permanent production begins. Remember that the change of seasons effect the temperature and humidity during application so periodic testing on application and adhesion confirm the product and production performance.
Step #7 – Choose the proper reducer for each application.
Review product data sheet for reducer temperature guidance.
Step #8 – Allow specific time between coats.
For both primers, topcoats, and clears, extend flash times between each coat application.
Step #9 – Adjust spray equipment.
Perform a spray pattern check prior to painting. Adjust flow, pressure, and tip if necessary. Use in well-ventilated facilities and with proper safety equipment.
Step #10 – Contact Matthews Paint Company with any questions.
Matthews’s customer service and technical assistance are both available for any color formula match, specification, or technical question that may arise.
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