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Tag: epoxy resin

Home / Tagged "epoxy resin"
July 7, 2022 BY
IN Composite Blog, Epoxy Resin, Resins

Epoxy vs. Polyester Resin:  Everything You Need to Know

When you’re working on a resin-based project, you’ll encounter several crucial decisions that you’ll need to make. Perhaps the most significant of these choices is what kind of resin you’re going to use. There are various types of resin available today, each with its own composite mixture. The type of material that you should use will depend on the nature of your project.

Today, we’re going to look at the difference between epoxy and resin made with polyester so that you can make an informed choice.

Epoxy Characteristics

You can find many types of resin on the market, all of which are designed to be flexible and versatile. The most popular choice for projects is either epoxy or polyester resin. Let’s start by examining the characteristics of epoxy resin.

  • High-strength design with excellent flexibility
  • Fantastic shelf life of up to a few years with proper storage
  • No option to vary the cure time of epoxy resin
  • Slightly more expensive than polyester resin
  • Does not shrink when cured like different types of resin
  • Perfect for applying as a thin film
  • Very little odor – doesn’t usually require the use of a mask
  • Resistant to cracking, wear, peeling, and corrosion
  • Moisture-resistance
  • Great bonding strength up to 2,000 PSI

Polyester Resin Characteristics

To decide between polyester resin vs epoxy, you need to know how each product works. So, what is poly resin? Polyester is one of the more common kinds of resin available today due to its affordability. Characteristics include:

  • Brittle design prone to small cracks
  • Shelf life ranging from six months to a year
  • Options to adjust the cure time by adding MEKP catalyst
  • Less expensive than epoxy resin
  • Significant off-gasses and flammable fumes
  • Does not cure well as a thin film
  • Water permeable when cured
  • Bonding strength of less than 500 PSI
  • Does not bond to epoxy resin

The Different Types of Resin

Knowing the difference between polyester resin vs epoxy ensures that you’ll use the right product for your project. However, in some circumstances, neither of these two options is suitable. In this case, you may need to consider one of the other resins on the market.

If you need to go beyond the debate of epoxy vs polyester resin for your project, here are some of the types of resin you should consider: 

  • Phenolic resins: A thermosetting resin that is heat-resistant, strong, and corrosion-resistant.
  • Alkyd resins: Made with thermoplastic polyester, these resins are excellent for electricals.
  • Polycarbonate resins: These are thermoplastics with a high refractive index, ideal for metal replacement.
  • Polyamide resins: Strong and resistant, these are great for gears, tires, and sutures.
  • Polyurethane resins: These are very versatile and can adhere well to substrates.
  • Silicone resins: Ideal for oxidative and thermal stability.
  • Acrylic resins: Created with acrylic acid, these resins are ideal for structural panels.
  • Polypropylene resins: Frequently used with electronic components and toys.

Though epoxy and polyester resins are common choices for many repairs and jobs, you may find a better option depending on the unique needs of your project. 

Epoxy vs Polyester Resin

Deciding on whether to use epoxy resin vs polyester resin can seem tricky at first. However, when you carefully consider your project and your intended goals, you can start to move in the right direction. 

For example, polyester resin is ideal for projects that involve fiberglass layup techniques, like when you’re building a boat. Polyester resin doesn’t cure when it’s aired out. Therefore, it’s perfect for jobs when every resin application needs to bind to the previously applied layer. 

However, if you’re looking at polyester vs. epoxy resin for a repair, polyester resin might be versatile and durable, but it’s not going to withstand a lot of pressure. Epoxy resin is stronger and can adhere well to cured polyester, while polyester cannot adhere to epoxy.

If you can use either type of resin for your project, you may want to consider the costs of each. Epoxy resin is a lot more expensive than polyester, making it less accessible for a larger job or repair. If you’re in a hurry, epoxy resin cures very fast if you’re using the right techniques.

Choosing the Right Resin

Now that you know the difference between polyester and epoxy resin, you can make an informed choice for your next project. At Plastic Materials, we have been manufacturing products to aid resin crafters for years. If you have any questions about epoxy vs polyester resin, get in touch!, We’d love to answer your questions about epoxy resin, polyester resin, and more.

With over 50 years of experience in the composite and fiberglass industry, you can trust us to provide you with high-quality resin at competitive prices. We’re committed to helping businesses large and small create the best products on the market. 

If you need products that clean, protect, polish, and shine a wide variety of surfaces, choose Plastic Materials. 
June 9, 2022 BY
IN Composite Blog, Epoxy Resin, Resins

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.
January 11, 2022 BY
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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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..
  4. 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.
  5. Pour the resin in a zig-zag pattern starting from the middle of the table for an even distribution of the coating.
  6. Level the resin as needed, but make sure to work quickly. Once the resin has reached gel consistency, stop working on it.
  7. Remove air bubbles by applying a little heat using a torch burner or heat gun.
  8. 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!

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