chelation takes place between Al+++ and Ca++ on the exposed tooth surface creating an adhesive bond.
The glass ionomer power, and water of cause and a spatula metal. Top tip is use a glass mixing slab gently warmed under hot water. Mad i know you would think it would set quicker but it doesn't. Oh...
polyacrylic acid
the acid in the gic liquid corrodes the cement spatula (metal). thus the colour of the gic restoration changes.
It is a thick liquid.