Cobalt Drier

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Cobalt Drier is a metal-based drying agent primarily composed of cobalt salts (commonly cobalt octoate or cobalt naphthenate). It is widely used as a catalyst to accelerate the drying (oxidative curing) of oils, alkyd resins, and varnishes in coatings and paints. This drier promotes polymerization and cross-linking of unsaturated fatty acids in drying oils upon exposure to air, significantly reducing drying times and improving film hardness and durability. Cobalt driers are essential additives in industrial, decorative, and automotive coatings due to their effectiveness at low concentrations and compatibility with various resin systems.

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Category: Driers Tags: Cobalt drier, Cobalt octoate, Paint drier additive, Paints and coatings, Violet to dark purple liquid

Description

Table of Contents

Cobalt Drier

Primary Uses

Paints, Coatings & Varnishes

Used as a catalyst (drying agent) in oil-based paints, alkyd resins, enamels, lacquers, and varnishes.
Accelerates the oxidative polymerization of drying oils like linseed oil, tung oil, and soya oil.
Enhances drying speed, film hardness, and gloss of coatings.
Improves overall performance and durability of protective and decorative finishes.

Printing Inks

Incorporated in oxidative drying printing inks to speed up drying on paper, metal, and plastic substrates.
Helps achieve rapid tack-free films and improved adhesion.

Adhesives & Sealants

Used in adhesive formulations where drying and curing of unsaturated oils or resins are required.
Ensures quick set times and strong bonding properties.

Secondary Uses

Wood Finishing

Utilized in wood stains, lacquers, and oils to accelerate drying, improve penetration, and enhance surface protection.

Polymer & Resin Chemistry

Acts as a catalyst in the cross-linking reactions of certain polymers and resins beyond coatings.

Artistic & Specialty Applications

Employed in fine arts for oil painting mediums to reduce drying times without affecting color or finish.

Metal Treatments

Occasionally used in specialty metal drying formulations to promote quicker cure of protective coatings.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Cobalt(II) 2-ethylhexanoate or Cobalt(II) naphthenate (depending on product)
Common/Trade Name: Cobalt Drier, Cobalt Octoate, Cobalt Naphthenate
CAS Number:
- Cobalt(II) 2-ethylhexanoate: 136-52-7
- Cobalt naphthenate: 64742-52-5 (varies with preparation)
HS Code: 2915.70.00
Molecular Formula: Variable – complex cobalt salts dissolved in oil solvents
Synonyms:
- Cobalt drying agent
- Cobalt octoate
- Cobalt naphthenate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Viscous oily liquid or solution
Color & Odor: Dark amber to reddish-brown; characteristic solvent odor
Melting/Freezing Point: Not applicable (liquid at room temperature)
Boiling Point: Approx. 230–270°C (solvent dependent)
Density: ~1.0–1.1 g/cm³
Solubility:
- Soluble in oils, organic solvents (aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones)
- Insoluble in water
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong acids and bases

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS):
- Harmful if swallowed or inhaled
- Skin and respiratory sensitizer
- May cause allergic skin reactions
- Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 2
- Reactivity: 0
Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA PEL; cobalt metal and compounds generally limited to 0.1 mg/m³ (TWA)
Toxicity: May cause skin and respiratory sensitization; chronic exposure can affect lungs and cause cobalt-related health effects
Reactivity: Stable; avoid strong oxidizers and acids

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources
Container Type: Metal or plastic drums with secure sealing
Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years if stored properly
Special Handling:
- Use explosion-proof equipment and grounding due to flammable solvents
- Avoid skin and eye contact; use adequate ventilation

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Not approved for food or pharmaceutical use
REACH Status: Registered as a cobalt compound under EU regulations
Transportation: Classified as flammable liquid (depending on solvent) and hazardous for transport
Waste Disposal: Dispose of as hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid release to environment
Persistence: May persist in soils and sediments due to cobalt content
Bioaccumulation: Low potential
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Cobalt compounds are classified as possible carcinogens (IARC Group 2B)
Biodegradability: Organic carrier solvents may biodegrade; cobalt itself is an element and does not degrade

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Chemical-resistant gloves
Safety goggles or face shield
Respirator (if ventilation is inadequate)
Protective clothing

Handling Measures:

Avoid inhalation of vapors and contact with skin or eyes
Use in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods
Prevent release into environment

Storage Measures:

Store away from heat, sparks, and open flames
Keep container tightly closed
Use grounding and bonding during transfer to avoid static discharge

Hygiene Practices:

Wash hands thoroughly after handling
Do not eat, drink, or smoke in work areas

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move victim to fresh air; if breathing difficulties occur, seek medical attention
Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation or allergic reaction develops
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Flammable due to solvent content; cobalt salts themselves are not combustible but may decompose on heating
Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective gear
Decomposition Products: May release cobalt oxides, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and solvent vapors