Champion Inks® OPTI-999 Super Retarder – Ink Flow & Drying Control for Superior Print Quality
Extend open time. Elevate print quality.
Champion Inks® OPTI-999 Super Retarder is a high-performance additive engineered to extend drying time, improve ink flow, and boost adhesion on non-porous plastics. Whether you’re running opaque or transparent systems, OPTI-999 prevents premature screen dry, delivers smooth, consistent laydown, and cures to a scuff-resistant gloss for long-lasting results.
Key Features & Benefits
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Extended Drying Time – Prevents premature drying on the screen for reliable prints and cleaner details.
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Enhanced Ink Flow – Reduces clogging and streaking for a smooth, even deposit.
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Superior Adhesion – Optimized for tough, non-porous plastic substrates.
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High-Gloss, Scuff-Resistant Finish – Durable, professional look that stands up to handling.
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Broad Ink Compatibility – Effective with both opaque and transparent inks using non-leaded pigments.
Recommended Substrates
- ABS, Acrylic, Polycarbonate (Lexan®)
- Polystyrene, Butyrate
- Coated Polyester (Mylar®)
- General non-porous plastic surfaces
Screen Printing Guidelines
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Coverage: ~1,000 sq. ft. per gallon (250-mesh screen)
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Mesh: 230–280 (92T–112T/cm) monofilament polyester
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Stencil: Optima EM-500 dual-cure, SBQ pre-sensitized, or other solvent-resistant emulsions
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Pre-Test: Always verify adhesion and print performance on actual substrate prior to production.
Drying Instructions
| Method |
Time & Temperature |
| Air Dry |
~30 minutes (solvent evaporation) |
| Jet Dry |
20–30 seconds @ 135°F–180°F (57°C–82°C) |
Ink Modification & Additives
| Additive |
Purpose |
Recommended Use |
| T-922 Biting Solvent |
Boosts adhesion on difficult plastics |
2–3% by weight |
| T-970B Fast Thinner |
Speeds drying / lowers viscosity |
5–15% by weight |
| T-971 Slow Thinner |
Extends open time |
5–15% by weight |
| T-980 / T-999 Retarder |
Further extends drying time |
2–3% by weight |
| FA-011 Flow Agent |
Improves flow / leveling |
0.5–1% by weight |
For fine details, add 10800 Halftone Base. For color extension or reduced pigmentation, use 10790 Clear Base.
Clean-Up
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Wash-Up: T-902 or T-925
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Eco Options: SC-500 Bio Wash-Up or SC-510 Instant Bio Wash-Up
Available Packaging
- 1-Quart (0.945 L)
- 1-Gallon (3.78 L)
Safety & Handling
- Consult the MSDS prior to use.
- Wear gloves and eye protection; ensure adequate ventilation.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.
Why Choose Champion Inks® OPTI-999 Super Retarder?
OPTI-999 delivers reliable open time, superior flow, and strong adhesion on plastics—unlocking crisp, high-gloss prints with consistent quality across long runs and challenging conditions.
Champion Inks® — Controlled Drying. Consistent Results.
