What is epoxy?
Epoxy is a two-component, thermosetting plastic. The two components consist of component A, the base resin, and component B, the hardener. After mixing both components, a chemical process occurs. This process ensures the curing of the epoxy resin
Call to actionIf you use epoxy resin in combination with glass fibre or other fibres, this is called a composite. Laminated or moulded pieces of epoxy resin and composites weigh much less than traditional materials, such as metal, wood or aluminium. In cars and planes, all these classic materials have now been replaced by composites. This reduces fuel consumption considerably, which in turn is good for the environment.
Features of epoxy
- High flexibility
- Adheres to almost all surfaces
- Good electrical insulation
- Resistant to chemicals
- Liquid and vapour tight
- Lightweight
- High compression and tensile strength
- Self-levelling
- Highly resistant to breakage and tearing in combination with aramid fibres
Applications of epoxy
Epoxy is often used as the basis for various products. A few examples are epoxy adhesives, epoxy coatings, epoxy putty and epoxy resins.
By using crystal-clear casting epoxy, it is possible to cast objects and items. This enables you to achieve beautiful results. Not only does it produce a result that looks like glass, but you can also make colourful creations by adding pigments.
Epoxy-based coatings are often used in the maritime sector, for example to repair decks or hulls. These coatings can be used both above and below the waterline, on almost any surface.
Epoxy resins have many successful applications in the plastics industry. This is mainly due to the fact that they are versatile, easy to use and therefore universally applicable.
You have undoubtedly come across items made from epoxy resins. They are used, for example, in household appliances, large building constructions, computers, satellites, on beverage cans, ship walls, etc.
Bio epoxy
Bio-epoxy is one of the most universally applicable epoxy resins. This bio-based epoxy resin is made from natural raw materials including cashew nut shells. The high wear resistance of this resin ensures that products made with bio-epoxy are strong and durable. Bio-epoxy is used in the food sector, model making, aircraft construction and composite repairs.
Under the influence of UV rays, epoxy has a tendency to yellow. this is why the use of a UV-resistant topcoat is recommended for the finish.
Working with epoxy
When working with epoxy resin it is advisable to use protective clothing such as overalls, gloves and a mouth mask. Epoxy resin does not produce strong odours but inhaling fumes released during the chemical process of curing can lead to an allergic reaction.
Call to actionSummary
Benefits
- Strong
- Durable
- Odourless
- Self-levelling
- Electrically insulating
- Crystal-clear
- Water- and vapour-proof
- Food-safe
- Adhesion on polyester
- Colourable
Disadvantages
- Sensitive to UV light
- Allergic reaction if inhaled
- More expensive than polyester
- Attention and accuracy required in weighing and processing
- Weight ratio is important
