What is Resin

A High-Performance Material for Versatile Applications


Epoxy resin is a two-component plastic that cures through the chemical reaction of an epoxy resin with a hardener. This reaction forms an extremely strong and durable bond characterized by versatility and excellent physical properties. Due to its properties, epoxy resin is a preferred material in numerous applications, from the construction industry to arts and crafts projects.

Properties of Epoxy Resin:

  • High Strength: Epoxy resin is known for its exceptional mechanical strength and durability.
  • Chemical Resistance: It offers excellent protection against many chemicals and solvents.
  • Adhesion: Epoxy resin adheres excellently to a wide variety of materials, including wood, metal, glass, stone, and plastic.
  • Water Resistance: It forms a water-resistant layer suitable for use in humid environments or underwater applications.
  • Adaptability: Epoxy resin can be colored, cast, laminated, or coated, making it a versatile material.

Areas of application for epoxy resin:

  • Construction industry: For floor coatings, repairs, and adhesives.
  • Shipbuilding and watercraft: For sealing and laminations in boat building.
  • Electronics: As an insulating material for electronic components.
  • Automotive and aerospace industries: For composites, structural adhesives, and repairs.
  • Arts and crafts: For cast resin applications, jewelry, tabletops, and coatings.
  • Medical technology: For the manufacture of medical devices and implants.

 

Disadvantages of epoxy resin:

  • Sensitivity to UV radiation: Without special UV stabilizers, epoxy resin tends to yellow and become brittle with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
  • Long curing times: Depending on the composition, epoxy resin can take several hours or days to fully cure.
  • Health risks: Contact with uncured epoxy resin or its vapors can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems, so protective measures are required during processing.
  • Brittleness: After curing, epoxy resin can be brittle in certain applications and crack under high loads.
  • Cost: High-quality epoxy resins can be relatively expensive compared to other resins.

 

Summary: 

Epoxy resin is a versatile, high-performance material with a wide range of applications, from industrial projects to creative designs. Its advantages such as strength, adhesion, and chemical resistance make it a preferred material. However, disadvantages such as UV sensitivity, health risks, and high costs should be considered during planning and use. However, with proper processing and application, epoxy resin offers enormous potential for durable, high-quality solutions.

The most frequently asked questions

  • Is epoxy resin food safe?

    After complete chemical curing, the epoxy resin is non-hazardous according to GHS08 REACH compliance and non-toxic according to GHS06. Please note that cuts made into the epoxy resin may leave residue on cutlery. Our epoxy resins are resistant to most chemicals and acids (including those found in food). However, it is possible that components of the cured material that are not intended for consumption may be dissolved by acids or similar substances.

  • Is epoxy resin heat resistant?

    Most standard epoxy materials can withstand temperatures up to around 65 degrees Celsius. That's fine for a hot cup of coffee or a plate of spaghetti. But a scorching-hot pan at 200 degrees Celsius can cause problems. Think warping, discoloration, or even a damaged surface. And that's obviously not the goal.

  • Is epoxy resin toxic?

    However, in its viscous (not yet cured) state, epoxy resin is toxic. Contact of the liquid resin with skin can cause serious skin, eye, and lung diseases. However, once cured, it is no longer harmful.
FAQ