OPTI 974 Slow Thinner / Retarder – Superior Ink Performance

The Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder is a premium ink modifier designed to enhance the printability, adhesion, and durability of screen printing inks on challenging substrates such as polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, leather, rubber, and canvas. This advanced retarder ensures excellent flexibility (55D rating), heat and chemical resistance, and a smooth, scuff-resistant gloss finish.

The Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder is a high-performance additive formulated for 66000 Series screen printing inks, designed to extend open time, enhance ink flow, and improve adhesion on difficult substrates. Engineered for long-lasting, high-quality prints, this slow-drying formula ensures flexibility, chemical resistance, and superior durability, making it ideal for polyurethane, leather, nylon, polyester, and other challenging materials.

Fully compliant with California Proposition 65 and RoHS standards, Opti-974 meets strict safety and environmental regulations, making it a reliable and eco-conscious choice for screen printers working with specialty materials.

Key Features & Benefits:

✔ Superior Adhesion & Flexibility – Optimized for polyurethane, leather, nylon, and polyester.
✔ High Resistance to Heat & Chemicals – Maintains durability even after dry cleaning and exposure.
✔ Smooth, Flexible Finish – Offers a scuff-resistant, glossy surface while ensuring long-lasting prints.
✔ Slow-Drying Formula – Prevents ink from drying too quickly, especially in hot and humid conditions.
✔ Proposition 65 & RoHS Compliant – Ensures safety and environmental responsibility.

Ideal Substrates:

✅ Polyamide (Nylon)
✅ Polyester
✅ Polyurethane
✅ Rubber
✅ Leather
✅ Cotton Denim
✅ Canvas

Product Performance & Application:

Finish:

✔ Smooth, Flexible, and Scuff-Resistant Gloss Finish – Provides a professional, durable print surface.

Ink Compatibility & Modifications:

The Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder improves ink performance for high-detail, long-lasting prints on hard-to-print surfaces.

Coverage & Screen Fabric Recommendations:

✔ Coverage: 1,000 sq. ft. per gallon using a 250-mesh (100T European) monofilament polyester screen.
✔ Recommended Mesh Counts: 230-280 (92T-112T European) for optimal print quality.
✔ Stencil Compatibility:

• Optima EM-500 dual-sensitized direct method photo emulsion
• SBQ pre-sensitized photo emulsion
• Any solvent-resistant emulsion or film

Drying & Curing Instructions:

✔ Air Drying: 30 minutes via solvent evaporation.
✔ Jet-Drying: 20-30 seconds at 135°F - 180°F (37°C - 83°C).

Clean-Up Instructions:

For best results, use:

✔ T-902 or T-925 Wash-up
✔ SC-500 Bio Wash-up (Non-Petrochemical Formula)
✔ SC-510 Instant Bio Wash-up

Available Packaging:

✔ 1-Quart (0.945 Liters)
✔ 1-Gallon (3.78 Liters)

Safety & Handling:

✔ Use protective gloves & eye protection when handling solvents and inks.
✔ Ensure proper ventilation to minimize fume inhalation.
✔ Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
✔ Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for complete safety guidelines.

Why Choose Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder?

✔ Optimized for hard-to-print substrates like polyurethane, leather, and nylon.
✔ Improves ink flow, adhesion, and flexibility for long-lasting prints.
✔ Ensures high resistance to chemicals, dry cleaning, and environmental exposure.
✔ Perfect for screen printers working with specialty materials requiring slow drying and superior durability.

Whether you're printing on industrial-grade fabrics, high-end leather goods, or synthetic materials, the Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder provides exceptional ink flow, extended open time, and professional-grade adhesion.