3:1About Epoxy Resin, What is it, How to Use & How to Choose?

The increasing demand for finished products in both local and international markets has led to the significant popularity of epoxy resin in Sri Lanka in recent years.

Epoxy resin is a highly versatile synthetic material composed of two components: resin and hardener (also called catalyst). When mixed together, the material solidifies within a few hours. The ratio of resin to hardener varies by brand and type of epoxy resin, but typically ranges from 1:1, 2:1 & 3:1

https://artland.lk/clear-epoxy-resin-sri-lanka/

(other types of epoxy resin 1:1, 2:1;3:1,4:1,5:2 ..etc).

There are numerous casting resins available for different applications, each with distinct properties. Some resins cure quickly, while others have a slow-curing process and produce an exceptionally hard and durable surface. Other key factors to consider include heat resistance, maximum layer thickness, adhesion to different materials, viscosity, and final hardness after complete curing.

Choosing the right epoxy resin for your project depends on various factors, such as the desired curing time, maximum layer thickness, and surface hardness.

Different properties of epoxy depending on the product:

• Duration of curing
• Maximum layer thickness per casting process
• Adhesion to various materials
• Viscosity
• Final hardness after complete curing time

We'll guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate casting resin for your particular application and provide tips for purchasing high-quality epoxy resin.

What applications is epoxy resin suitable for?

Epoxy resin is a highly versatile material that finds application in various areas, including:

• Floor coatings for warehouses, indoor car parks, shops, hotels, bathrooms, living areas, garages, and more.
• Surface sealing, such as on kitchen worktops (countertops) and to preserve timber or wood tables.
• Creation of resin furniture, such as epoxy resin tables (river tables).
• Resin art and epoxy resin jewelry.
• Rapid repairs using UV resin.
• Modelling and resin molding/casting.
• Construction of terrariums and aquariums.
• Epoxy resin adhesives for repairing small parts.
• Gelcoat and topcoat in boat building.
• Renovations and waterproofing.

The versatility of epoxy resin makes it an ideal material for a wide range of applications across numerous industries.

Epoxy resins are available in Sri lanka by Artland.

Which epoxy should I use for my project?

When selecting the appropriate epoxy resin for your project, it's crucial to consider its material properties in both liquid and hardened states.

Low viscosity casting resin, also known as "casting resin," has a watery consistency that allows it to penetrate even the smallest cracks and holes in a casting mold. It generally has a longer processing time of 12-24 hours (or up to 72 hours for slow-curing, low viscosity resin) and generates less heat during the reaction. As a result, it's perfect for pouring decorative objects, sealing cracks and holes in wood, creating furniture such as river tables, molded parts in model making, and resin jewelry.

Low viscosity casting resin is ideal for the following applications:

• Pouring decorative objects
• Sealing cracks and holes in wood
• Pouring furniture such as river tables
• Molded parts in model making
• Resin jewelry

In contrast, highly viscous epoxy resin, also known as laminating resin, has a honey-like consistency and is well-suited for resin art or coating surfaces. Depending on the manufacturer, it can only be poured up to approximately 0.5-1 cm high in a single pour, but multiple layers can be added if necessary.

Laminating resin is typically used for:

• High-gloss surface sealing
• Resin art, including resin pictures, geodes, and Petri art
• Protective layer for paintings of all kinds and other fluid painting techniques
• Sealing of epoxy resin tables
• Final layer sealing for all flat surfaces, such as worktops
• Garage and floor coatings
• Living area floor coatings

Working with different viscosity epoxy resin & layer thickness

When working with epoxy resin, it's important to consider the viscosity of the resin and the desired layer thickness.

When it comes to casting thick layers, low-viscosity resin is an excellent choice, whereas highly viscous resin, also known as laminating resin, is typically not recommended to be poured thicker than 1cm. The thicker consistency of laminating resin makes it challenging for air bubbles to escape, and it can generate excessive heat, leading to cracking.

Resin: processing or hardening time

Processing time (Pot Life): One of the most important points is the processing time, also known as the open time or pot life. It defines how long the resin can be processed after the two components are mixed together.

At a certain point in time, the resin begins to become thicker or lumpy and should then no longer be processed - it no longer levels itself and can no longer be evenly colored.

Hardening time (curing Time): Resin curing time refers to the amount of time it takes for a resin liquid to fully harden and cure. The curing time can vary depending on the specific type of resin being used, the temperature and humidity of the environment, and the thickness of the resin layer.

It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing time and temperature to ensure that the resin cures properly and achieves its desired properties.

What are available epoxies and what are the ranges of their processing times?

The processing time for resin can range from short, taking 5 minutes to an hour, to longer times of 12-72 hours. Full curing may take up to 24 hours for short processing times, and 3-7 days for longer processing times.

Advantages and disadvantages of different processing times:

Short processing time:

Advantages:

Special effects achievable during dyeing of these resins

Faster build-up of layers, allowing new layers to be poured in a shorter time.

Disadvantage:

Major blistering may occur, and it can be difficult to vent.

Tends to yellow when exposed to UV radiation.

Long processing time:

Advantages:

Longer processing time allows for more time to mix colors and work carefully.

When casting transparent layers, the transitions between the successively cast layers are less visible.

Disadvantage:

More mixing cups and spatulas are needed when pouring multiple layers.

Summary of Epoxy Resin Properties:

Epoxy resin has become a popular material for various applications in recent years due to its numerous positive properties. The following properties apply once the epoxy has cured, which can take up to a week depending on the product and manufacturer. It is important to note the information on the packaging of the product as the chemical process may take longer than it appears.

• Very high strength
• High abrasion resistance
• Low occurrence of cracks with proper substrate preparation
• Good acid resistance
• High electrical insulation properties
• Good heat resistance
• Low flammability in the liquid state
• Low shrinkage during curing/drying, with very little shrinkage from the liquid to the hard state
• Excellent adhesive properties on most materials (except certain types of plastic)
• High weather resistance
• Good shelf life (1-2 years if properly stored)

The cured surface of epoxy resin is highly durable and mechanically resilient. It is also corrosion-resistant and resistant to acids.

Negative properties of epoxy resin;

While epoxy resin has many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider:

• Light-fastness to UV radiation is not always guaranteed.
• Highly concentrated acid can damage the resin's acid resistance.
• Skin contact with liquid epoxy may cause allergies and rashes.
• Removing hardened resin can be difficult and time-consuming.
• Even clear epoxy resins may develop a slight yellowish tint over time.
• Epoxy is sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature.
• Avoid mixing epoxy with water-containing colorants, as this can compromise the resin's curing and mechanical properties.

Is Epoxy Resin Toxic?

Epoxy resin can be toxic if not used or handled properly. The resin and hardener components are usually not hazardous on their own, but when mixed, they can release harmful vapors and should only be used in a well-ventilated area. Prolonged exposure to these fumes can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and even sensitization. Additionally, skin contact with uncured epoxy resin can cause irritation, rashes, or even severe allergic reactions. It is important to always wear protective clothing, gloves, and a respirator mask when working with epoxy resin to minimize the risk of exposure. It is also essential to follow all safety instructions and handle the materials with care.

Additionally, it is recommended to work with epoxy resin in well-ventilated areas and wear protective equipment such as a respirator with a filter and safety glasses. It is also essential to follow the safety instructions provided on the packaging.

To ensure safety while working with epoxy resin, the following protective measures should be taken:

• Wear nitrile gloves
• Use a respirator with a filter
• Wear safety glasses
• Work in a well-ventilated area
• Wear long-sleeved clothing or a protective suit

The mixing vessel should not be filled completely to prevent the liquid from spilling over during mixing. By adhering to these safety measures, you can safely work with epoxy resin. For more information on processing epoxy resin, please refer to our separate article.

Coloring epoxy resin - how does it work?

Resin is usually colorless and clear. This is desirable for some applications such as pouring objects in, building terrariums or aquariums. For the greater part of possible applications, however, one would like to color the resin.

What color can epoxy resin be colored with?

A whole range of colors are suitable for combination with resin:

• Airbrush paint
• Color pigments in powder form (None Organic)
• Liquid color concentrate (DO NOT use water-base colors)
• Alcohol Inks

Paints that contain water should be avoided at all costs, as the water content has undesirable effects on the epoxy resin and there is a risk that it will not harden completely. 

Subsequent painting is also an option, but only in special applications such as terrarium or aquarium construction. A high-quality 2-component car paint can be used. 

We have created a comprehensive guide on the subject of epoxy resin coloring, which introduces the best products and tells you what to consider when coloring. Please see the Article Here

Sealing wood with epoxy resin - does it work?

This works very well, epoxy resins are also often used for this. This makes the surface waterproof and completely sealed. Possible applications in this area are:

• Kitchen top made of wood
• Seal tables
• Boat repairs with gelcoat or topcoat
• Seal any other wooden surface 

You must follow proper methods to get the best results, you can find out more about this in our guide on the subject of epoxy resin wood. 

How can you remove epoxy resin? 

The good adhesive properties and mechanical strength make it difficult to remove epoxy resin. The mechanical removal is accordingly very complex. It is therefore easier to liquefy the material and scrape it off. 

The surface is treated with acetone and then you wait an hour until the surface is slightly soft. Then a hot air gun is used to heat the affected areas to approx. 200 degrees. Only at this temperature does the resin become liquid again and can then be scraped off. 

It is important that the surrounding materials such as wood or plastic do not get too hot or burn. For more information and detailed instructions, see Removing Epoxy Resin.

How dangerous is epoxy resin?

When cured, epoxy resin is absolutely non-toxic and harmless. In the liquid state, however, direct skin contact can cause chemical burns and, in extreme cases, permanent allergies. Any vapors that may appear can also be harmful. 

Therefore, the following safety measures should be observed:

• Provide adequate ventilation
• No direct skin contact - wear nitrile gloves
• Wear a respirator in poorly ventilated areas
• Wear protective clothing or long-sleeved clothing

Is epoxy resin food safe?

Basically, epoxy resin is food-safe as soon as it is completely cured. This can take up to several weeks. Epoxy resins can be specially certified for contact with food, but most manufacturers do without them due to the high costs. 

What does resin mean? 

Resin comes from the English language and generally means resin, but is very often used as a synonym for epoxy resin. The term resin is used in particular for the use of resin in art. The properties are identical, only the name is different. 

What does epoxy mean? 

Epoxies are a chemical group of reactive, organic compounds. The epoxy resin is made from a polymer made up of several epoxy segments. 

Is epoxy resin waterproof?

Epoxy resin is completely waterproof after curing and it stays that way. This material is tight even after several years, provided that no cracks occur due to major vibrations. 

How can epoxy resin be processed/finish? 

After curing, it is basically a hard piece of plastic. Accordingly, the material can be processed in a variety of ways:

• Drill
• Cutting / Sanding
• Polishing

What is the pot life?

The period of time in which the epoxy resin can be processed is called the "pot life". It depends on various factors: 

• Resin used
  
• Processing quantity
  
• Ambient and surface temperature
  
• Epoxy resin temperature 

In the pot life, the viscosity changes from thin to thick, until it can no longer be processed . Depending on the amount used and the external factors, there is little time left for processing after mixing the epoxy resin. It is therefore worth mixing only as much as can be processed. 

Get bubble free epoxy resin

• The containers should not be shaken before the epoxy resin is actually mixed
• The epoxy resin and the hardener can be placed in a warm water bath beforehand
• When mixing, you should mix calmly and regularly so as not to incorporate too many air bubbles.
• If you pour objects, seal them in advance with epoxy so that no air bubbles can escape during the pouring process
• In cases of hardship, a vacuum pump can also be used to remove air bubbles

We strive to keep this article informative, easy to comprehend, and precise, and we update it frequently to reflect the accurate information. To stay current, please make sure to check back on this article periodically.

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