West System Inc. (Bay City, Mich.) has introduced Brand 209 Extra Slow Hardener, designed to prolong epoxy cure time in high-temperature and humid environments. In the latter, the hardener’s moisture-resistance properties allow the epoxy to cure properly, thus optimizing general bonding and barrier coating. Developed for curing at temperatures in excess of 70°F/21°C, the resin/hardener mixture can be used successfully in temperatures higher than 95°F/35°C. Pot life is 40 to 50 minutes at 72°F/22°C and 15 to 20 minutes at 95°F. At 72°F, the epoxy cures to a solid state in 24 hours and in six to eight hours at 95°F. It reaches maximum strength in four to nine days.