Reaktol Catalyst for use with Fresco Silicones - 20ml

Fresco Silicone Curing Catalyst for Podiatry Silicones

A precision liquid catalyst formulated to support consistent curing and handling when working with the Fresco Silicone material range.

Best for: Controlled mixing of Fresco Silicone materials in clinical, laboratory, and fabrication environments.

Not ideal for: Use with non-compatible silicone systems or applications requiring pre-catalysed materials.

• Designed specifically for the Fresco Silicone range
• Colourless for clean, predictable mixing
• Long shelf life for workshop efficiency

What is it?

Fresco Silicone Liquid Catalyst is a specialised curing agent used during the preparation and mixing of Fresco Silicone materials. Supplied as a clear, colourless liquid, it is added in small, controlled quantities to silicone compounds to initiate and regulate the curing process.

The catalyst is formulated as a mixture of silica acid esters and selected organometallic compounds. Its composition is intended to provide reliable curing behaviour when used according to recommended ratios, supporting consistent material performance without altering the base silicone’s colour or handling characteristics.

This catalyst is not a finished material in its own right. Instead, it functions as a supporting component within a broader silicone fabrication workflow, enabling clinicians, technicians, and manufacturers to tailor working time and curing behaviour to suit specific applications.

Who is it for?

This product is intended for professional and specialist users who routinely work with silicone materials and require predictable, repeatable curing results. It is most commonly used in environments where precision, material control, and repeatability are important.

Typical settings include orthotic and prosthetic workshops, podiatry laboratories, hospital-based fabrication units, training institutions, and specialist manufacturing environments. Advanced users with appropriate technical knowledge may also incorporate it into controlled fabrication processes.

What is it used for?

The Fresco Silicone Liquid Catalyst is used to activate and control the curing of Fresco Silicone compounds. By adjusting the amount of catalyst added, users can influence working time and curing speed within safe and recommended limits.

Applications

• Mixing and curing Fresco Silicone materials for orthotic components
• Fabrication of silicone-based foot orthoses and interfaces
• Prototyping and testing silicone forms in laboratory settings
• Educational demonstrations of silicone handling and curing
• Specialist footwear or insole development processes

Characteristics

• Liquid consistency for precise dosing
• Colourless appearance for visual neutrality
• Compatible with the full Fresco Silicone range
• Stable formulation with a long shelf life

Typical users

• Orthotists and prosthetists
• Orthotic technicians and fabrication labs
• NHS and hospital in-house workshops
• Podiatry clinics with in-house manufacturing
• Universities and clinical training centres

How to work with it

The catalyst is added directly to the silicone material during mixing. A commonly used guideline is approximately one drop of catalyst per one centimetre of silicone, though this may vary depending on specific material requirements and environmental conditions. Careful, consistent mixing is essential to achieve even curing throughout the silicone mass.

Expected use timeline

First use: Once added to the silicone and mixed thoroughly, the catalyst begins to influence curing behaviour immediately. Users should work within the available working time of the silicone system being used.

Ongoing use: Over repeated uses, the catalyst supports consistent curing when stored and handled correctly. Results may vary depending on ambient temperature, mixing technique, and silicone volume.

Problem and solution overview

Key benefits

• Supports predictable curing behaviour with Fresco Silicone materials
• Liquid format enables accurate, incremental dosing
• Neutral appearance avoids visual interference with silicone compounds
• Suitable for a wide range of clinical and technical applications
• Long shelf life supports stock management and reduced waste

Common mistakes to avoid

• Adding excessive catalyst, which may reduce working time unnecessarily
• Using with non-compatible silicone systems
• Inadequate mixing leading to uneven curing
• Storing outside recommended conditions, which may affect performance

How to work with Fresco Silicone Liquid Catalyst

1. Prepare the required amount of Fresco Silicone material.
2. Add the catalyst gradually, following the recommended guideline of approximately one drop per centimetre of silicone.
3. Mix thoroughly until the catalyst is evenly dispersed.
4. Proceed with shaping or application within the available working time.
5. Allow the silicone to cure fully before further handling or finishing.

Technical specifications

Frequently asked questions

Is this catalyst suitable for all Fresco Silicone products?

Yes, it is designed specifically for use across the Fresco Silicone range when used according to guidance.

Can it be used with other silicone brands?

Compatibility with non-Fresco silicone systems is not assured and should be evaluated cautiously.

Does adding more catalyst improve strength?

No. Increasing catalyst quantity primarily affects curing speed and may reduce working time without improving material properties.

How long does the catalyst last once opened?

When stored correctly, the product maintains its stated shelf life of up to three years.

Is the catalyst visible in the finished silicone?

No, its colourless formulation is designed to avoid visual impact on the final material.

Is this a ready-to-use silicone?

No, this is a catalyst component and must be used in combination with Fresco Silicone materials.

Complementary and pairing suggestions

• Fresco Silicone base materials
• Silicone mixing containers and spatulas
• Protective gloves and work surfaces
• Finishing and trimming tools for cured silicone