Type of Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin may be one of the finest inventions of human history. While it is generally known as an industrial grade adhesive, there are numerous other applications. Epoxy resin is used in electronics and electrical system as an insulator and protector. It is used in arts and crafts. It is used in arts and crafts, as a sealant and protective coating. In addition to this, it is also used as an adhesive for tricky materials such as glass, ceramic, and wood.
However, different types of epoxy resin glue are used for different purposes. This is why we have so many types including UV epoxy resin, liquid epoxy resin, and crystal epoxy resin to name a few. Epoxy resin pigments are used in manufacturing of paints as well.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about epoxy resin so that you can find the best one for your needs. Let’s start with an overview of epoxy resin is and how it works.
What You Need to Know About Epoxy Resin?
Don’t get too confused about different types of epoxy resin. Whether it is UV epoxy resin or any other type, they are all copolymers. It means they are essentially a mixture of resin and hardener. The curing process i.e. the hardening of the resin varies from resin to resin. Other factors that might affect the process and time including temperature and thickness of application, etc.
It doesn’t matter if you use liquid epoxy resin of any other, the process time may take from a few minutes to a few days. A good way to tell that the epoxy resin is completely cured is to focus on clarity and hardness. It should be completely hard and clear.
Temperature is a crucial factor in this process. As a matter of fact, there some types of epoxies that are activated in high temperature. They do not require a hardener in the mix. While they have their benefits, they are prone to degradation due to prolonged heat exposure. UV epoxy resin is a prime example of this type.
While generally all types of epoxy resin glue may lose strength and endurance due to UV exposure, one of them involves UV light in the curing process. UV epoxy resin is cured with the help of ultraviolet light flashes at low temperature. A special device is used to cure the epoxy. UV light speeds up the curing process, cutting down the overall working hour. It is inherently weather resistance. This means it can endure heat as well as moisture better than other types, be it crystal epoxy resin or liquid epoxy resin.
Applications of Epoxy
Epoxy resin glue is generally known as an adhesive but there are other uses as well. It is used in a wide variety of industries including electronic manufacturing and construction. Here are some of the most common uses of different types of epoxy resin.
Electronics and Electric Systems – Epoxy resin can display powerful insulating properties and therefore it is widely used in this industry. They are used in manufacturing of transformers and generators. It protects the sensitive parts from dust and moisture, hence preventing short circuit and other issues.
Sealant and Coating – Epoxy resin can be a powerful sealant for containers or cans. It can prevent rust and corrosion for a long time. Therefore, it is used to extent the shelf life of several items including certain types of food. A coat of epoxy on the floor can prevent erosion of the tiles as well.
Painting – Crystal epoxy resin is generally used in paint house hold items such as washers, stoves, and appliance that endure a lot of water during operation. Epoxy resin pigment can be used to create a more artistic and aesthetically pleasing result. Epoxy resin paint is also used for metallic furniture as it can improve rust resistance as well.
Repairs – For almost everything that cannot be repaired with a regular glue, there is epoxy resin glue. You can use it to repair every item ranging from a wooden table to delicate glass vase, from metal to china. Once dry, the epoxy will seem like a part of the item itself.
Art and Craft – From beautiful decorative flowers to cute little buttons, epoxy resin glue can be used to create memorable craft without wasting a lot of money. It has garnered a lot of attention from the jewelry making community.
Can You Make DIY Epoxy Resin?
One of the most common DIY epoxy resin question is whether you can make it at home or not. The answer is ‘Yes’. Almost all epoxy resins are made the same way. They usually have one part of the hardener and one part of resin. Mix it together and you have your epoxy ready. However, UV Epoxy Resin is different as it doesn’t require any hardner. It is the curing that makes all the difference. Unless you have a UV ray device, you won’t be able to make DIY epoxy resin.
Why Should Your Go for UV Epoxy Resin?
For a typical epoxy resin, it usually requires a large oven to provide enough heat the items. Things can get impossible tricky when you have bulky items to deal with. That is just one of the problems you can avoid with UV epoxy resin. It is more convenient and practical to apply. These are the kind of situations UV epoxy resin is generally preferred.
The UV rays trigger a chemical reaction that can produce heat o to 200 C. This convenient application makes it even easier to use epoxy resin on tricky objects with hard to reach areas.
Conclusion
So, here we were with all you needed to know about epoxy resin, and how you can use it for different purposes. There is a variety to work with and you can create your own DIY epoxy resin as well. Scientist are working on new products to further improve the problems currently faces. UV epoxy resin is a fine example of how it is improving by the day.