Epoxy Resin

Epoxy Resin FAQs:

What is epoxy resin?

Epoxy resin is a polyepoxide that is composed of polymers and prepolymers that contain epoxide groups that react with catalysts to create a strong adhesive and resistant finish. In order for epoxy resin to reach its finished form, it must bind with a catalyst, such as heat or pressure, or co-reactants such as hardeners. AeroMarine offers both epoxy resins and hardeners for your project needs that are extremely strong and have great flexural strength.

How do you use epoxy resin?

Epoxy resin has a variety of uses that can make any DIY craft, floor, table, or countertop one-of-a-kind with a finish spectacular. To use epoxy resin, follow these steps:

1. Clean the surface you’re applying epoxy resin to and make sure you have safety equipment, such as nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and that you’re working in a well-ventilated area
2. Mix your epoxy resin with a hardener following the directions written on the label
3. Using a paintbrush, apply the epoxy resin to the surface and remove any air bubbles using a toothpick or a pin
4. Wait several hours or even a day for the epoxy resin to cure

When planning out your next project that requires epoxy, it’s important you make accurate measurements to ensure you buy the right amount of epoxy resin. You can use our epoxy resin coverage calculator to ensure you don’t have to wait for more epoxy to come in the mail mid-project after running out.

What materials can I use epoxy resin on?

The beauty of epoxy resin is that it can be used on a variety of surfaces. It doesn’t lose its shape as it cures and it can even maintain its strength when filling in holes and cracks. Here are some materials you can use epoxy resin on:

• Concrete: If you have concrete garage or basement floors, you can use a concrete epoxy resin that comes in colors like white, black, and grey.
• Pebbles: There’s nothing more frustrating than pebbles from a sidewalk or walkway getting kicked around and ending up in the grass for the lawnmower to catch. With pebble epoxy resin, you can keep all of your sidewalk, driveway, or patio pebbles together in harmony.
• Wood: Whether you have wooden floors, furniture, or countertops that need repairing or a glossy finish, wood epoxy resin will do the trick. It’s protective, extremely resistant to spills and heat, and is very tough, ensuring your floors and furniture stay in good shape from water, termites, and every day wear-and-tear.
• Finishes: If you want to create a smooth, glossy finish to your floors, floor epoxy resin is the way to go. And, if you want a similar shine and smoothness to your countertops, tables, boats, metal, wood, and plastic items, clear epoxy resin is your right hand man.

How long does epoxy take to cure?

If you’re waiting for your epoxy resin to cure, there are a few things you need to know. The cure time of epoxy resin depends on two things: the hardener and the temperature. AeroMarine’s 300 epoxy resin with 21 hardener has a cure time of about 24 hours at 70 degrees Fahrenheit, while our 5 minute epoxy has a cure time of about 60 minutes at 70 degrees. However, for every 10 degrees above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the cure time is cut by 10 percent. Just make sure you don’t raise the temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or the resin might not cure properly.

What is the shelf life of epoxy resin?

AeroMarine’s epoxy resin has a guaranteed shelf life of 6 months. However, if you properly store your epoxy resin, you can expect the epoxy to last up to a few years. The best way to store epoxy resin is by keeping it off of the floor, such as on a pallet or counter, and in a room that has a consistent temperature between 65F and 75F.