June 9, 2022 BY PMI

How to Mix Epoxy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Epoxy resin has been gaining popularity due to its versatility and ability to produce stunning art of all kinds. However, the compound can be overwhelming for a beginner who is just getting started with the techniques and tools of the craft.

One especially intimidating procedure is epoxy mixing, a procedure that can make or break the success of the outcome of the product. The process demands careful measurement and mixing to produce a properly cured piece. However, it gets easier with the right directions and practice.

Here’s a guide on how to mix epoxy that will ensure you get it right every time.

How Does Epoxy Resin Work?

As mentioned, making epoxy resin can be tricky for DIYers. It’s important to get the mixing right and follow the manufacturer’s directions if you want to get it right. This is because epoxy resin is a type of plastic made of two parts that you combine to create a single substance: A resin and a hardener.

Essentially, mixing resin with hardener causes a chemical reaction that begins as a liquid but hardens with time. This process of hardening is known as curing, and the result is a solid finish that can either be clear or come in a variety of colors.

Measuring the resin and hardener accurately and thoroughly mixing the epoxy resin is crucial to achieving a perfect product. Improper measurements could result in an epoxy mix that hasn’t cured properly and is either soft or sticky or has bubbles.

Mixing Epoxy: Supplies and Equipment

Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need:

Eye protection, rubber gloves, and a respiratory mask
Clean silicone mixing cups
Clean mixing sticks
A kitchen-style digital scale or a silicone measuring cup
Plastic spoons
Surface covering
A silicone mold (or the surface you plan to make your art on, such as artboards, canvases, and tiles)

Mixing Epoxy Resin: A Step-by-Step Guide

With everything ready, let’s get into how to mix epoxy resin.

Step 1: Prepare Your Surface

Some resins take longer to dry than others, but hardening usually starts to occur quickly and can leave you without wiggle room to get everything ready. As such, it is important to prepare the surface before you start.

If using a mold, make sure it is wax-free before applying a new coat of epoxy release agent. Surfaces other than silicone molds should be clean and dry.

Step 2: Measure Your Resin

Choose a high-quality epoxy and carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions before you start. Depending on the brand, epoxy resins are designed to work in a specific hardener ratio to resin mixture. Most require a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio, measured either by weight or volume. You perform your measures using a measuring cup or digital scale.

Make sure to measure to the exact specifications.

Step 3: How to Mix Resin

After pouring the two parts in the correct ratio, mix thoroughly for about 2–3 minutes with your mixing stick. Do this for longer if mixing larger quantities. Make sure to scrape the sides, corners, and bottom as you mix to get all the resin and hardener.

The mixture is ready when it takes on a single consistency without streaks.

Step 4: Pour The Resin

Pour the resin directly into your mold immediately after mixing it. If pouring onto a surface, consider dispensing it in stages, spreading each pour into a very thin layer, and then smoothing it out with a brush.

Add things into your epoxy resin mixture in between these layers and before it begins to tack.

Step 5: Curing

Epoxy slowly turns from a liquid to a gel state before it reaches a solid state. This process is what is known as curing and is faster when the epoxy is warmer and longer when the epoxy is cooler. It’s best to let your mix cure at room temperature.

If bubbles appear during the process, eliminate them by passing a heat gun over the resin on the low setting. This will bring them to the surface, where the trapped air is released.

There you have it — your resin should be crystal clear and ready for treatments such as sanding and adding a finishing top coat.

Epoxy Mixing Tips

Attention to detail is key to a successful epoxy project. If you do not know how to mix epoxy or are just starting, here are a few tips and facts you should be aware of:

If using a measuring cup, choose one with the smallest usable increments possible to enable accurate measurement.
Avoid moisture contamination by making sure your mixing tools are clean and dry and the environment is not too humid. Water can prevent your mixture from curing.
Only use compatible resins. These are either products from one manufacturer or brands that are intended for each other.
Make sure your resin hardener is not cold before mixing. A temperature of 75 degrees F or warmer is ideal.
Don’t mix your epoxy too fast or irregularly to keep air incorporation to a minimum. This is what causes the bubbles to form during curing.

Get Started on Your Next Project

There you have it: with the right measurements and materials, you should be able to create a beautiful piece that will last a lifetime. Plastic Materials Incorporated has all the materials you’ll need to create your epoxy resin castings. Contact us today to learn more about epoxy resin castings, or visit our shop to view our complete selection.

April 28, 2022 BY PMI

IN Epoxy Resin, Mold Release

Mold Release Agents and Substitutes

Art, jewelry, DIY crafts: Your imagination is the limit when casting things with epoxy resin—all you need is to create a mold of the shape you wish. It’s easy to make molds of different types and forms. The tricky part is releasing the hardened epoxy resin from the mold. In most cases, a mold release agent is needed to properly remove the casting from the mold you have created.

There are a variety of mold release agents available, but how do you know which is best for your project? Also, what do you do if you do not have any on hand? Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of common agents, including mold release alternatives you can use when these are not available to you.

What are Mold Releases?

Mold release agents are chemicals that are used to prevent certain materials from sticking to each other. When casting with epoxy resin, you need the resin and the hardener and a release agent to prevent it from sticking to the mold. It does this by creating a lining between the mold and the resin.

There must be no contact between the resin and the mold during the curing process, and failure to ensure this could lead to a ruined casting, mold, or both.

If you work with epoxy resin often, you will understand the need for an appropriate release agent for the mold you are working with. Mold release for resin can be used on silicone molds and is also suitable for polyester resin and polyurethane resin in some cases.

However, unless you work with coated or sealed wood, there is no ideal epoxy resin release agent for wood molds. Its porosity causes the release agent to be absorbed, which compromises the protective layer created. The same is the case with plaster and foam.

Types of Mold Release Agents

Which epoxy release agent should you use? Release agents come in three primary forms: Spray, wax, or lacquer. Of these, the application and mold you use will determine which you should use.

Let’s take a look at the properties and uses of each.

1. Mold Release Spray

Mold release spray is a mix of aerosols and wax, where the aerosol is used as a carrier material. When sprayed, the aerosols evaporate, leaving the wax on the surface to coat the mold.

Best for: Small, intricate molds.

Mold release spray is perfect for detailed surfaces and molds with many corners as the aerosol delivers the wax in small particles that can penetrate small spaces. This quality also makes it one of the best for wood surfaces.

Application: Make sure the surface of the mold is free from any dirt or grease to ensure the wax adheres to it. Once clean and dry, shake your spray can, hold 20–30 centimeters away from the mold, and spray evenly over your mold surface. Make sure to spray only a thin layer and leave it on for about 2–3 minutes before pouring in your resin. Repeat twice or thrice is using a wood mold.

2. Mold Release Wax

This wax comes in a container in liquid or paste-like consistency. It’s a mixture of wax and solvent and can easily be applied using a brush or cloth.

Best for: Mold release wax can be hard to get into those tiny corners of an intricate mold, thus it is best used on large, flat surfaces.

Application: Shake the wax container to mix the solvent and wax, which may have separated over time. Next, scoop out the wax and put it on a clean, soft cloth. Smear it over the mold and leave for about five minutes. Once it has set, polish off the excess wax, and you’re good to go. Be sure to clean your mold thoroughly after.

3. PVA Mold Release Lacquer

PVA release lacquer is made up of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a synthetic substance that is soluble in water and provides a glossy finish to resin castings. One does not need to polish the casting after applying the PVA.

Best for: Use when you need a second barrier after waxing the mold. PVA lacquer is also ideal for porous as well as sealed surfaces like wood and plaster.

Application: PVA can be applied with a brush, sponge, or spray gun. Apply at least three layers if you aren’t using it together with a wax release agent. Make sure you allow it to dry for about 10–15 minutes between applications.

Can I Use Homemade Mold Release Agents?

Yes, you can. If you don’t have any agents on hand, you can use any of the following everyday items as a mold release substitute or to make your own homemade mold release agent:

Cooking spray: This is one of the best mold release spray alternatives. Make sure to use non-stick cooking spray.
Petroleum jelly: Because of its thickness, petroleum jelly is best used as a mold release alternative for simple molds without any small corners or fine detail.
Talcum powder: Its powdery nature makes it a great silicone mold release substitute, but will not do as well with smoother materials such as sealed wood.
Vegetable and mineral oil: These can be rubbed into the mold the same way you would line a baking tray.

Need High-Quality Mold Release?

Whether you’re looking for wax or liquid mold release, Plastic Materials Incorporated has it all. We stock a variety of agents for all types of molds. Contact us today to learn more about epoxy resin castings, or visit our shop to view our complete selection.

March 29, 2022 BY PMI

IN Composite Blog, Fiberglass

Fiberglass Protection: How to Use Fiberglass Safely

Fiberglass is made up of microscopic molten glass fibers. The fibers that make up this material can split, leaving sharp edges, just like any other form of glass, mandating the need for fiberglass protection. Fiberglass shards that find their way onto your skin can cause minor cuts as well as excruciating itching. When working with fiberglass insulation, the only way to prevent cuts and itches is to wear fiberglass protective clothing.

Skin Irritation

When handling fiberglass insulation, steps need to be taken to prevent injuries and irritations, such as fiberglass in eyes or accidentally inhaling it. Even though the glass fibers are tiny, they are capable of causing wounds on a microscopic level. Like any broken piece of glass, these tiny fragments can penetrate skin and slash into cellular tissues, necessitating the need for fiberglass protection for the skin. Since the wound is minor, no bleeding occurs, and the consequences aren’t life-threatening.

However, in some cases, the resulting skin irritation can pose a significant risk. The brain receives pain signals from the skin’s nerves, which are interpreted as itchy sensations. Itching from fiberglass penetration can be excruciating, and in some cases, it can lead to rashes or widespread skin allergy symptoms.

When working with fiberglass insulation, safety and aftercare measures need to be taken into consideration. You can remove a fiberglass fragment in a variety of ways. Try tightly applying a piece of duct tape to the skin where the fiberglass is if they aren’t too embedded. Hold the tape tightly in place for a few minutes, then slowly remove it. Alternatively, with decent lighting, you can try to remove the splinters with tweezers.

Vinegar is a natural, non-toxic alternative to harsh chemicals that can help dissolve a fiberglass splinter. Taking a hot shower first and then rinsing the region with vinegar is the safest way to remove fiberglass fibers. Then, to eliminate the vinegar’s taste, rinse with cold water once more.

Take an antihistamine if you have a severe reaction to fiberglass. Antihistamines can help relieve itching and skin discomfort when you have a strong reaction to fiberglass.

Respiratory Issues

While working with insulation, it’s possible for fiberglass particles in the air may become deeply trapped in the lungs, causing severe illnesses such as asthma. When fibers are inhaled, they can cause soreness in the nose and throat and potentially lead to bronchitis. If fibers are swallowed, they can cause temporary stomach discomfort.

Fibers inhaled can be expelled from the body by sneezing or coughing, as well as the body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Personal Protective Equipment

Head

When dealing with fiberglass, wear a hat or a hood to keep the itchy little fibers out of your hair. If you’re insulating areas taller than head-height, fiberglass protection headwear is particularly necessary. Any hat will suffice as long as it is secure on your head and does not obstruct your view.

Face

Since tiny glass fibers can irritate your eyes and lungs, eye protection and a dust mask are the most important protective equipment you can wear. Choose a pair of big protective goggles that fit snugly over your eyes and around the sides. When dealing with fiberglass, you don’t need a heavy-duty filtration mask. A basic dust mask, which can be purchased at any hardware or home improvement shop, should be sufficient to prevent fiberglass particles from being inhaled.

Body

It’s incredibly easy to get fiberglass on clothes. To mitigate chances of irritation, wear a disposable coverall to shield your clothes because it’s extremely difficult to get glass fibers out of material once they’ve been embedded. For added protection, layer your coverall with long sleeves and long pants.

Hands

Gloves are also a necessary article of clothing for fiberglass protection. Wear gardening gloves or lightweight work gloves to shield your hands from tiny fibers.

If you take a brief break, wash your hands thoroughly whether or not you are wearing gloves while dealing with fiberglass. This will help you avoid transferring fiberglass fibers to your skin, hair, or anything else you may come into contact with.

Fiberglass in Clothes

Fiberglass in clothes can be incredibly difficult to remove. To safely clean articles of clothing, remove the clothes outside or in an environment where the particles won’t shake off into other fabrics after completing a job or a workday where you were exposed to fiberglass.

When removing clothing, keep it apart from other garments or furnishings, or the fibers will spread. It might be preferable to simply throw the clothing into an empty washing machine and wash it separately rather than combining it with other pieces.

Let Plastic Materials Answer Your Questions Fiberglass

Plastic Materials helps business people, artists, and hobbyists with these products and knows how to succeed when using resins, epoxies, and fiberglass. If you have further questions regarding fiberglass protection, we can help you. Contact us today!

March 9, 2022 BY PMI

IN Abrasives, Composite Blog, woodworking

Orbital Sander vs. Sheet Sander: When to Use One Over the Other

Sanding is the essential final step in any woodwork project to achieve a professional, polished finish. However, unless you have the right tools for the job, it can be tedious and time-consuming…
That’s where mechanical sanders come in. The two types that you’ll most often encounter are the orbital sander and the sheet (or square) sander. Both can help you with your sanding task, but which one is better?
This article will attempt to put the orbital sander vs. sheet sander debate to rest.
Orbital Sander vs. Sheet Sander Overview
There are many types of mechanical sanders, each with its own specialized use. Sometimes, you’ll need all of them to take care of your woodworking tasks.
However, suppose you had to pick only one. In that case, woodworkers will generally recommend that you get either a random orbital sander or a sheet sander (also called palm, square, or finishing sander).
Despite the differences between a random orbital sander vs. palm sander, they work roughly the same way. They both move abrasive sandpaper at high speeds to sand down any surface with little effort.
The difference, though, ends there.
A sheet sander moves a piece of sandpaper in a circular or lateral motion. This sander has a rectangular shape that’s suitable for reaching small surfaces and corners. You can also adjust the sanding level by switching to sandpaper with a different grit.
Sheet sanders are lightweight, easy to use, and tend to be cheaper than orbital sanders.
In contrast, an orbital sander moves a sanding pad in a circular yet random motion. The latter helps prevent the swirl marks that a sheet sander can leave. When comparing orbital vs. sheet sander, the orbital sanders tend to have more powerful motors to sand even the roughest surfaces.
However, with that much power, orbital sanders are also more expensive.
When to Use an Orbital Sander vs. Palm Sander
So, what is an orbital sander used for?
An orbital sander is the best tool if you want to smooth out a very rough surface as quickly as possible. An orbital (vs. palm sander) will remove a much more considerable amount of material when used with the same grit paper. Thus, it’s best used for a “first pass,” making quick work of the material to prepare it for refining work with a sheet sander.
An orbital sander uses a circular sanding pad of around five to six inches in diameter housed in a convenient secure-in-place attachment. You can switch between pads if you want something a little more or less abrasive. You use it with broad strokes, thoroughly passing across the wood’s surface until you reach the desired smoothness.
When to Use a Palm Sander vs. Random Orbital Sander
A palm sander is designed for refining work and finishing touches, hence why it’s also called a finishing sander. The smaller, rectangular surface also works best to reach the smaller corners and edges that you can’t access with a circular sander.
This sander requires portions of a full sheet of 9 x 11 sandpaper held in place by a clamp. You can easily swap sandpapers of different grits to adjust the level of abrasiveness of the sander. Some models also allow you to pick between a circular or in-line motion.
Pros and Cons of Orbital and Sheet Sanders
Here are a few more pros and cons of an orbital sander vs. hand sander.
Orbital sanders are a much more versatile tool, thanks to their powerful motors and randomized circular motion. They leave a smooth finish without any swirl marks. Also, most models have a vibration absorption feature that reduces hand fatigue on the user.
However, orbital sanders tend to be more expensive than sheet sanders to buy and maintain. Plus, the aggressive and powerful motor can damage certain materials or surfaces. Thus, more care and skill are required when using an orbital sander.
A sheet sander is relatively lightweight, portable, and cheap. Its gentle motions give you more control when filing down delicate surfaces like paint and coating.
Where a sheet sander falls flat is when trying to smooth an excessively rough surface. Even if you sanded all day, you’d make minimal progress while expending a considerable amount of effort. Also, if you’re not careful, sheet sanders can also leave unsightly swirl marks on the finished product.
Now that we’ve covered both these tools, it’s pretty clear that they complement each other. The orbital sander gets the brunt of the work done, while the sheet sander touches up minor flaws and accesses hard-to-reach surfaces.
Whether you prefer an orbital sander or sheet sander, both tools have a place in your woodworking arsenal.
Need Tools for Your Next Sanding Project?
At Plastic Materials Incorporated, we offer various sanders, accessories, and other equipment for your next project. Visit us today to learn more about our products.

March 1, 2022 BY PMI

IN Fiberglass

How to Make Fiberglass Repairs on Boats

When boat owners find that their precious fiberglass boat has been damaged, no doubt one of the first things they think is, “I need to find a fiberglass boat repair near me.“ However, going to a boat repair specialist comes with astronomical fees of up to $3,000.

But here’s the surprising truth most boat experts won’t tell you: most repairs really aren’t that expensive. Patching a fiberglass boat can cost as little as $500 or less if you’re not afraid of some elbow grease.

This article will discuss fiberglass boat repair: how to do it yourself, how much it will cost you, and the materials you’ll need.

Fiberglass Boat Repair Overview

Before we get into the specifics of doing a boat hull repair, let’s briefly discuss the material you’ll need.

In most boats, “fiberglass” is a combination of fiberglass strands and epoxy resin, finished with a thin layer of pigmented resin called the gel coat. That outer coating gives fiberglass its sheen.

The depth of the damage will dictate how you’ll approach the repair. Is just the outer layer damaged or does the inner fiberglass core need repairs too? If it’s just the gel coating, you should be able to sand it down and apply a fresh coat. However, if the core has been damaged, it will need to be filled. You’ll know that the fiberglass core has been breached if you see fiber strands.

Fortunately, fiberglass is straightforward to repair. You can fix even the gravest of damage with relative ease and minimal expense.

Preparing for a Fiberglass Gouge Repair

If you want to achieve the best results, you should prepare the affected area for repair.

First, remove any decals or stickers on your boat using a heat gun set at the lowest setting. Gently run the heat gun over the decal and peel carefully. Use an adhesive remover to clear off any residue as needed.

You should also check the surrounding areas for delamination. If you find any it’s best to remove these spots altogether. Use a screwdriver and tap the affected fiberglass – any dull sound is a sign of delamination. These areas can cause issues down the road, so you should cut them out. Repeat this process, checking the edges of the hole and enlarging each as needed.

Fiberglass Boat Repair Cost and Materials

One question that will pop up when you start any hull touch-up project is, “how much does fiberglass repair cost?”

Fortunately, it’s relatively inexpensive to do a fiberglass repair. Boat scratches, deep gouges, and even holes can cost less than $500 in materials. If you have the required tools, then the cost might be even lower.

It’s essential that you buy and prepare everything ahead of time so the repair session goes smoothly. Here’s the equipment you’ll need to perform the repair:

Heat gun
Rotary tool
Disposable spray gun
Variable speed buffer
Wool buffing pad
Burr nose grinder bit
Sanding block
Paper cups
Stir stick
Sandpaper

Then, you’ll need materials. Most of the materials are available at any hardware store. Or, you can contact Plastic Materials Incorporated to buy everything in one convenient place.

Acetone
Gel coat (try contacting the manufacturer to match the exact color to your boat model)
Gel coat reducer
Buffing compound
Powdered fiberglass filler
Wax

Lastly, don’t forget your safety gear:

Safety glasses
Respirator
Chemical resistant gloves

How to Fix a Fiberglass Boat: Step-by-Step Solutions

This guide will show you how to repair deep gouges that have penetrated the fiberglass core.

Use a V-shaped grinder bit to cut grooves into the gouged area. Smooth the edges of the gel coating to eliminate any sharp areas.
For lighter scratches, you can use sandpaper to sand it down. Start with 80-grit sandpaper, then move a 150-grit, before finally finishing with a 240-grit.
Prepare a gel coat filler in small batches. Gradually mix gel coat and powdered fiberglass together until they form a paste resembling peanut butter. Add the hardener last and mix thoroughly for a full minute to remove any resin patches.
Apply the gel coat filler on the gouged areas. It’s perfectly okay, and in fact recommended, to overfill, as you will sand these spots later on.
Allow the filler to cure for 1 – 2 hours. You can touch it to tell if it’s ready.. The filler should be fully hardened without a sticky texture.
Prepare a batch of gel coat mixture, which consists of a gel coat, gel coat reducer, and hardener. Place it in a disposable spray gun and use short bursts to apply it over the affected area.
Wait for the gel coating to cure.
Finish the repair areas with sandpaper. Start with 600-grit, then move on to 800-grit. Finally, end with 1,200-grit before buffing.
Re-apply any decals you want, and then wax.

A Fiberglass Boat Repair Is Easy with the Right Materials

The quality of your repair work is only as good as the materials you use, so make sure you only get the best. For everything you need, give Plastic Materials Incorporated a call. We have everything you need, from fillers to gel coatings to epoxy and polyester resins.

February 3, 2022 BY PMI

IN Carbon Fiber, Composite Blog, Epoxy Resin

Epoxy Resin for Carbon Fiber: A Powerful Combination with a Host of Benefits

When working on an important project, you want to ensure that you get the best results and longevity. So, you’ll need to decide on whether to use epoxy resin for carbon fiber and, if so, which products. Resins are growing increasingly popular for not just construction but also for repairs and product design.

These composite materials can compete with high-strength solutions like titanium and aluminum while maintaining lightweight performance. When you use carbon fiber with epoxy resin, you can create more durable, lightweight components for all types of projects.

Different epoxy resins or casting resins come with distinct benefits. Today, we’ll be looking at the process of using carbon fiber and resin together for a host of valuable uses.

What is Epoxy Resin?

So, what is a carbon fiber epoxy resin? Essentially, epoxy resin is a versatile material suitable for use in a variety of settings. To use epoxy resin, you mix it with a liquid hardener or curing agent. The interaction of the carbon fiber resin and hardener results in a chemical reaction. After it cures, the resin becomes a strong, solid substance.

Epoxy resins come in many styles. Carbon fiber resin is a practical choice when you’re looking for high versatility, excellent adhesion, reliable performance in a range of temperatures, and low shrinkage.

Why Choose Epoxy Resin for Carbon Fiber?

Manufacturers frequently choose epoxy resins and carbon fibers to access exceptional durability and strength. The two materials work well together, as epoxy is one of the few materials capable of adhering to the carbon fiber’s surface.

With a carbon fiber epoxy mixture, you can achieve high-strength, low-weight components that can withstand high levels of vibration and fatigue. Another great feature of epoxy resin for carbon fiber is its flexibility. You’ll create perfect shapes and components on your first try, avoiding the over-use of raw materials and resources.

Manufacturers work with carbon fiber and epoxy resin to build solutions for high-performance applications. This excellent carbon epoxy combination delivers benefits like:

High strength-to-weight ratio balance
Excellent tensile strength
Vibrational dampening
Low CTE rate
Temperature resistance up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Resistance to corrosion and wear
Reduced waste and assembly times

What is the Best Epoxy for Carbon Fiber?

The best epoxy for carbon fiber depends on your unique needs.

You can find many types of adhesives that bond well to carbon fiber. To choose the right solution for your project, you’ll need to think about your required cure process and the kind of fatigue a joint may need to endure.

Some of the available epoxy for carbon fiber options today include:

Cyanoacrylate: Known to many manufacturers as “instant adhesive,” this is excellent for bonding carbon fiber reinforced polymers.
Single component epoxies: High-level single component epoxies are specifically designed to work with carbon fiber. These solutions can offer color match aesthetics, as well as exceptional strength.
Two-component epoxies: Some two-component epoxies have also been carefully developed to encapsulate the fibers in carbon fiber projects.
Structural acrylic: MMA-grade acrylics offer excellent carbon fiber bonding.
Polyurethane adhesives: Most Permabond polyurethane adhesives offer good impact resistance and strength.

Uses of Epoxy Resin for Carbon Fiber

So why might you use epoxy resin for carbon fiber for your project?

If you want to reap the benefits from the lightweight strength of this unique combination, in instances such as:

Sporting goods design: Sports equipment, like hockey sticks and softball bats, often use a combination of epoxy resin and carbon fiber to reduce the weight of the equipment while allowing for long-term durability.
Aerospace manufacturing: The lighter and more durable aerospace components can be, the better. Carbon fiber is strong yet lightweight. As a result, it can support the demands of an aerospace craft without excess weight.
Automotive design: Mainstream vehicle manufacturers can also benefit from integrating carbon fiber into their designs. Race cars and high-end vehicles have been experimenting with this lightweight material for some time.
Home projects: Carbon fiber epoxy composite materials can make it easier to create attractive pieces of modern furniture without compromising performance.
Wind energy: Many modern turbines we use today come with fiberglass blades that allow for faster, cleaner movement.

Discover the Benefits of Epoxy Resin and Carbon Fiber

Epoxy resin for carbon fiber comes in a variety of different forms to suit all kinds of needs. Whether you’re building a lightweight product from scratch or repairing components that need to be durable, you should consider using these two materials. The combination of epoxy’s versatility and carbon fiber’s strength creates an incredible range of opportunities.

Plastic Materials Incorporation has a wide range of high-quality epoxy resins, carbon fiber, and other materials for your next project. For products that clean, protect, polish, and shine a wide variety of surfaces, trust us. Contact us today to learn more!

January 11, 2022 BY PMI

IN Composite Blog, Epoxy Resin, woodworking

Epoxy Resin for Wood: Which is Right for Your Project?

The Best Epoxy for Wood

Wood resin is one of the best ways to turn any woodwork project into a true masterpiece. You can use it on anything from a simple but elegant epoxy wood table to a unique piece of resin wood art.

Like any artist, you need the best raw materials to produce the best work possible. That’s why we’ll be covering the best colored or clear epoxy for wood for your next project. We’ll also discuss what you need to consider when buying woodworking epoxy.

Epoxy Resin for Wood Overview

Epoxy resin is a transparent polymer that creates a shiny, crystal-like finish on wood or any other surface. In addition to its aesthetic value, the coating forms a durable layer, protecting your project from moisture, scratches, or chemical damage.

When working with wood and resin, there are a few important considerations you need to make.

Surface Hardness and Temperature Resistance

Two essential properties of a resin coating are its hardness and temperature resistance. Both determine overall durability. Higher-quality resin will be harder and more resistant to temperature changes. It is best used on surfaces that receive a lot of stress, like chopping boards or countertops.

Maximum Layer Thickness per Casting

Epoxy resin can only maintain a certain thickness every time you cast it, often around two centimeters. If you exceed this limit, the curing process might harden some parts faster than others, leaving unsightly spots.

UV Protection / Resistance to Yellowing

Clear epoxy is prone to yellowing when it’s exposed to UV radiation. For outdoor furniture, it’s best to get a UV-resistant resin.

Determining the Best Epoxy for Wood

There are many types of epoxy on the market, but some are better than others for wood. We’ve broken down the differences below.

Polyamide epoxy is the most common type available on the market. It works with a wide variety of wood surfaces and adheres to them exceptionally well. It’s not as resistant or durable as the other types of resin, but it’s sturdy enough for most applications.
Polyamine epoxy has all the benefits of polyamide, but with extra resistance to corrosive chemicals and acids. However, the resin tends to take longer to cure.
Phenolic epoxy is exceptionally resistant and durable, and it is able to withstand even the most corrosive chemicals. However, it requires heat during the curing process, so it takes a bit of effort to apply.
Novolac epoxy is the most durable and resistant resin available, so it is the best choice for outdoor surfaces. It’s heat and UV-resistant, can withstand corrosive chemicals, and is exceptionally resilient. There are a few problems with novolac: it’s costly, hard to apply, and requires high heat to cure.

The 10 Best Epoxy for Wood

Pro Marine Supplies Epoxy Resin

This is one of the best epoxy resins on the market, with a durable and resistant finish. Its self-leveling formula is suitable for any surface or project, making it a favorite of woodworkers.

East Coast Crystal Clear

East Coast is a durable epoxy resin that results in a brilliant, crystal finish. It’s exceptionally durable, resistant to UV and scratches, and even waterproof. Plus, it’s safe to use. This epoxy is great for outdoor applications.

RTG Bar and Table Top Epoxy

RTG is a beginner’s epoxy, thanks to its ease of use and simple preparation. It has decent durability that is sufficient for indoor projects. The epoxy also bonds to almost any surface, including stone and ceramic.

Art’ N Glow Clear Casting and Coating

Art ‘N Glow has a fast curing speed, so it is best for smaller jobs, such as coffee tables. It’s also unaffected by bubbles, so you won’t need to remove them manually.

SRC Epoxy Resin

Great for the budget-conscious woodworker, SRC Epoxy Resin combines ease of use with a stellar price. The result, fortunately, is still durable and resilient.

MAS Epoxy Resin

One of the best resins around, MAS is a professional epoxy that produces stunning results. The only drawback is its long curing time (although that also means it’s easier to apply.)

ArtResin

Made for artists, ArtResin is a flexible epoxy resin that can also be used for casting. It’s durable and resists yellowing quite well.

Abatron WoodEpox

This epoxy is best for repair and renovation work because it can be sanded and painted after it hardens. Also, it contains compounds that protect the wood surface from moisture, UV rays, and heat.

Versakoat Crystal Clear

Versakoat gives your wood surface a gorgeous, almost mirror-like finish — perfect for an elegant glossy look. The formula is self-leveling and prevents bubbles, making it easy to achieve a flawless finish.

Countertop UV-Resistant Resin

This non-toxic, eco-friendly resin doesn’t produce any harmful fumes. It’s also exceptionally durable and resilient, especially from UV radiation.

Wood Epoxy Application: A How-To Guide

Let’s see how to apply the resin to create a wood and epoxy table.

Clean the surface of the table thoroughly. Ensure there’s no oil, wax, moisture, or greasy substance that can interfere with the resin’s adhesion.
Surround the table’s surface with a barrier on all sides so the resin doesn’t flow over the table’s edge. A high-quality adhesive tape is a good choice here.
Figure out how much resin you need, preferably with a resin calculator. Make sure to account for a little extra so that you have some wiggle room in case of any mistakes..
Prepare the resin by mixing the epoxy and hardener according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t stir the mixture too much, though, as you want to avoid air bubbles.
Pour the resin in a zig-zag pattern starting from the middle of the table for an even distribution of the coating.
Level the resin as needed, but make sure to work quickly. Once the resin has reached gel consistency, stop working on it.
Remove air bubbles by applying a little heat using a torch burner or heat gun.
Allow the resin to cure for 48 hours or more.

Need the Best Resin for your Next Project?

Plastic Materials Incorporated has a wide selection of high-quality epoxy resins and other materials for your woodworking project. Contact us today!

November 9, 2021 BY PMI

IN Composite Blog, Composite Industry News

Urethane vs Polyurethane: What is The Difference?

Furniture, bedding, flooring, and even the clothes you wear: polyurethane and urethane are compounds found in many things we use every day.

The two terms are often used interchangeably, and both compounds are used in the construction of products at different stages of production to improve their physical properties. This confusion is partly due to one making up part of the other and the two being used for similar purposes.

However, there’s a distinct difference between polyurethane and urethane, and their properties and features corroborate this.

Understanding these attributes and the composition of each can help you choose between one or the other for home or commercial use.

Let’s take a look.

What is Urethane?

Urethane is a colorless and odorless crystalline compound derived from ethyl ester. It was created in the 1950s–1960s and has a chemical formula of C3H7NO2, which is a combination of both amides and esters and carbonic acid.

On its own, urethane looks like white powder but can also take the form of colorless and odorless crystals which are flexible and malleable. These physical qualities make it a very versatile compound. Urethane uses are many and varied depending on the form it takes: It can be molded into various shapes and sizes that are used to produce plastics; it is used as a coating, adhesive, or sealant in liquid form; and also in the production of insecticides, veterinary medicine, and human pharmaceutical products.

Additionally, urethane can be used as spar urethane, a type of varnish preferred for outdoor applications due to its high water resistance level.

Is urethane toxic?

Yes. Researches have found that urethane is a toxic, cancer-causing compound to small animals like rats but safe for humans. People who take medicines with urethane may also experience allergic reactions, and nausea is a common side effect.

What is Polyurethane?

Polyutherane is a polymer (PU) that is made up of organic units of isocyanates and polyols linked via urethane units. As its name suggests, multiple urethane compounds are joined together by a chemical reaction known as polymerization to create a solid substance. One of the main differences between urethane versus polyurethane is that urethane is soft and malleable, and polyurethane is rigid and firm.

To put it simply, urethane is a chemical group, and polyurethane incorporates many urethane groups.

Due to its durable nature, polyurethane is used when creating products for long-term use. Its chemical composition of urethanes and other compounds makes it adaptable to a wide variety of circumstances, whether that be extreme heat or freezing cold. It is also used as a heavy-duty coating as it bonds well with both metal and plastic and is a better coating choice for firmer items than urethane, tougher even than rubber or steel. Some paints also contain polyurethane which gives them a better coating and shine.

Differences Between Polyurethane and Urethane

What is the difference between urethane and polyurethane? These compounds are so similar that even experts in the manufacturing industry consider them the same thing.

Let’s compare urethane vs polyurethane by their attributes:

	Urethane	Polyurethane
Chemical composition	Made up of both an ester group and an amide group compound along with a carbonic acid	Composed of organic units linked via urethane linkages
Physical Properties	Soft and flexibleFound in liquid form	Hard and rigidA solid
Melting Point	50 °Celsius	Burns instead of melting
Toxicity	High toxicity	Low toxicity

As you can see from the table, there is a difference between urethane and polyurethane. Even where the two are used for the same purpose, the results are often different, e.g., a urethane vs polyurethane clear coat on a piece of furniture or hardwood floor would produce a different look and feel. However, because one makes up the other, both compounds are colloquially referred to as polyurethanes.

Polyurethane Uses

Polyurethane is an incredibly versatile compound that can be used in countless applications. It’s found in everyday household materials and heavy machinery alike.

Some of its most common uses include:

1. Furniture, Bedding, and Seating

Polyurethane can be molded into a foam of different densities, firmness, and quality. Everything from mattresses to sponges is made with polyurethane. It is also used to make standard fabric car seats.

2. Footwear

That walking shoe that feels as if you’re stepping on a cloud? Thank polyurethane. Its special properties provide a supportive and comfortable base that can return to its original form after use.

3. Adhesive

Polyurethane adhesive properties make it popular for applications such as sealing, roofing, tiling, aerospace laminating, flexible packaging, upholstery, and flooring. Consider these applications when choosing between urethane vs polyurethane adhesive.

4. Thermal Insulation

Low-density rigid polyurethane is used to insulate walls, and carpet underlay is also made of recycled polyurethane scrap.

5. Flooring

Protective polyurethane is resistant to abrasion and spills and is used as a protective coating.

Learn More About Using Urethane and Polyurethane in Your Manufacturing

Both urethane and polyurethane can be used to make top-of-the-line industrial and commercial coatings. Looking to add these compounds into your production? Contact us to talk to one of our technical sales representatives about our specialty products and material solutions today.

October 14, 2021 BY PMI

IN Composite Blog, Epoxy Resin

How To Polish Resin: A Step-by-Step Guide

Working in resin lets us create beautiful pieces of artwork. With resin work, we can create pieces for our own pleasure, or this can be the basis of a small business based on our art skills. Creating something beautiful can be immensely rewarding, either to give as a gift or as the foundation of a successful enterprise.

Today, we will share information and tips concerning how to polish resin. We’ll share ideas on how to use resin polish after sanding, what epoxy objects are easiest to polish, and what the best epoxy polish compounds are. Polishing epoxy resin is easy and will make your artwork shine.

What is Resin Polish?

Resin polish is usually a clear liquid or paste that is used after sanding. Any product that can be used for wood polishing also works great on resin. Various kinds of automobile polish also work very well with resin. You should experiment with test castings and determine what works well on the type of resin that you like to use in your castings.

Which Epoxy Resin Objects Should I Polish?

First, carefully wet sand your object after removing it from its mold. Using water and wet sanding the object by hand is the best method. You should also use sandpaper that is between 120 and 3000 grit. Carefully clean your piece between each round of sanding and application of an epoxy layer. Sanding marks and grit can get caught between epoxy layers. This process is easy but requires patience and attention. Only fully sanded pieces should be polished.

All epoxy resin objects can be polished, but the methods that you use will depend on what kind of object you are polishing. The rule is that softer cured resin objects should be polished by hand, and hard cured resin objects can be polished with a buffing wheel or drill head. Smaller objects should be polished by hand if possible or with a buffing wheel. Hand polishing is the correct option for small objects that have many curves.

What are the Best Epoxy Resin Polishing Compounds?

There are several types of epoxy resin polishing compound on the market. We recommend that you experiment with each type of epoxy polishing compound available. As previously stated, automotive and wood polishes can work very well with resin jewelry and other small objects.

If possible, cast and sand a test piece of resin and then polish, testing different polishes to see how they appear. The best polish for epoxy resin is the one that tests the best on your specific work.

How to Polish Epoxy Resin items

Here, we will discuss how to polish epoxy items, with an emphasis on polishing by hand. Even large objects can be polished by hand, although the best results can be gained on a large epoxy surface by using a drill with a buffing drill head.

For this process, you will need:

A Polishing paste of your choice
Water (either a bucket or a spray bottle will do)
A linen or cotton cloth
A block of wood that can be covered by your cloth and fits in one hand

How to Polish Epoxy Resin After Sanding

1) Apply your polishing paste to your cloth, and then moisten it slightly with water.

2) Rub your piece with the cloth using careful, circular movements over the object. There won’t be a change immediately, so keep at it and make sure you apply the paste to the entirety of the object. Keep rubbing with the circular movements until you notice the change of gloss. Be patient, this may take some time.

3) Your wooden block will help you polish straight surfaces, edges, and other areas where you need to apply pressure. Cover the block with your cloth and use this to polish the straight corners and edges of your piece.

Make sure that you only use colorless polishing paste to avoid any coloring effects on your piece. Further, make sure that after every application you use a separate clean cloth to wash off the polishing paste. Until removed, polishing paste can give an epoxy resin object a matte appearance.

Polishing Resin Objects by Machine

When polishing by machine, follow the same general steps using a circular on and off motion. However, you should still be careful to use machine polishing only with resin pieces that have cured to a high level of hardness. Soft cured resin objects can warp due to heat or even breaking. A combination of machine polishing and hand polishing can be used for resin objects that have many curves.

Bringing Out the Shine: Let Plastic Materials Answer Your Resin Polish Questions

If you’re a crafts enthusiastic, professional artist, or small business person who works in resin, let us help you. Plastic Materials works with arts professionals, and we can answer any questions you have about how to polish resin. Contact us today.

September 22, 2021 BY PMI

IN Composite Blog, Composite Industry News, Epoxy Resin, Resins

Your Questions About Sanding Epoxy Resin, Answered

When working on home improvement or art projects, a question arises: can you sand epoxy resin? In this article, we’ll look at the issues surrounding sanding epoxy resin. Epoxy is an incredibly popular material to work with, and sometimes sanding it is a necessity, such as when a second layer of epoxy will be applied.

We’ll also talk about whether dry or wet sanding epoxy resin in various situations is a good idea, what issues you can expect to run into, and what tips and tricks can make this process easier. So, let’s look at sanding epoxy resin, and attempt to answer these questions.

Can You Sand Epoxy Resin?

Yes, you can! However, several special considerations need to be kept in mind when you attempt to sand epoxy resin as part of a project. Here, we’ll show you how to sand epoxy resin, but let’s discuss setup first.

There are several setup steps to follow. Below are our recommendations for art projects, but the same general instructions should work for larger-scale projects (such as tables).

You will need:

A dust mask. Resin particulates can be carcinogenic, and protecting your respiratory system is crucial.
A supply of various sanding papers, from 400 to 1000 grit. If you are wet sanding, you’ll need waterproof sandpaper of the right grit ranges. Generously stock sandpaper for your needs.
A hard-surfaced area you can work in that will allow you to use water and can be easily cleaned. Even wet-sanding results in sand, resin particulates, and other debris. Make sure the area is also closed off to pets and kids.
A rubber hand sanding block. Do not use an electric sander if you are water sanding, it’s unsafe.
Eye protection for airborne particulates. Even if you’re not working with a powered sander, sand and resin particulates can harm your eyes.

Wet vs. Dry Sanding Resin

When working with epoxy, it’s recommended that you wet sand. While dry sanding may be unavoidable, wet sanding is preferable for these reasons:

The quality of sandpaper lasts longer when used wet than when used dry. Dry sandpaper abrades very quickly when used on epoxy and you’ll consume dry sandpaper much more quickly.
Much less dust is produced with wet sanding, keeping the area safer for your lungs.
Due to the binding of dust to surfaces, irregularities in the surface are more readily apparent and can be sanded appropriately.
If you are working with an orbital sander, you may have no choice but to dry sand. Usually, wet sanding is done by hand. However, generally, wet sanding is easier and safer than dry sanding.

What is the Best Sandpaper for Working with Resin?

When wet sanding, waterproof sandpaper with a grit between 60 and 4000 is the best sandpaper for resin. Be careful of what level of grit you use because sandpaper with a low grit rating can leave marks on the current layer. Make sure you sand with a grit rating of 1000 or above if you are applying a new layer of epoxy resin.

How Do I Sand Epoxy Resin?

Once you have your supplies ready and have created a space to work, follow these steps:

1) Make use of a hard rubber sanding block. As stated above, using an electric sander is dangerous if you are wet sanding. Also, wear eye and mask protection. Switch to a curved sanding block when you need to sand curved surfaces.

2) Use a container with warm water. Both a bucket and a spray bottle are helpful.

3) As you proceed to sand, frequently remove debris, and check the surface, removing sandy residue with a cloth or paper towel. Be careful, as you switch to finer grades of sandpaper grains from coarse paper, debris may remain and become trapped when you apply your next coat of epoxy. Take care when you are sanding epoxy resin between coats.

4) As you proceed, switch in finer and finer grades of sandpaper until your epoxy surface reaches the level of smoothness that you want.

5) Sanding only achieves a certain level of luster and shine. Your resin surface may need to be polished once you reach the final coat.

If you follow these directions on how to sand resin, your project should look great and be done in no time.

Dry and Wet Sanding: Plastic Materials Helps You with the Answers

Do you have further questions about how to sand epoxy? We at Plastic Materials work with artists, small business people, and devout hobbyists every day to achieve their project goals. Contact us with your questions about sanding epoxy resin, or any other questions about working with epoxy. We can also assist you with any questions you may have about polyester resins, vacuum bagging, orbital sanders, and more.