Sticky layer of gel: why it appears and when to remove it
The sticky, or dispersion, layer is often a normal surface feature of polymerized gel: oxygen inhibits the reaction at the very top level. Its presence does not prove that the entire material is under-cured, and its absence does not mean the cure is correct. Remove the dispersion only at the stage and with the product that the specific system requires.<\/p>
Why the surface remains sticky<\/h2>
During polymerization, most of the material hardens, but the surface comes into contact with oxygen. In many formulas, this creates a thin sticky layer. The next compatible material can be applied directly onto it, if the manufacturer specifies this.<\/p>
The term "dispersion" is convenient in practice, although it is more accurate to speak of an oxygen inhibition layer. Its thickness and stickiness differ between bases, colors, gels, and tops.<\/p>