What is Epoxy Resin?

Epoxy resin is a synthetic polymer made from bisphenol A (BPA) and glycidyl ether. It is strong, flexible, durable, resistant to heat and chemicals. They are also available in different colors and finishes for a specific use depending on the type of project. A versatile material, this resin is produced in polyester, acrylic and alkyd types.

This form of resin can be applied with a roller or brush. However, it can also be used in spray form in some areas of use. It must be mixed with the catalyst before use. Thus, it cures 24 hours after use. It is widely used in floors, paints, polishing and varnish applications. This class of resins is therefore needed in everyday life for specific applications.

In Which Areas Is Epoxy Resin Used?

Epoxy resin, thanks to its properties, is nowadays developed and used for various applications. Thanks to its special formulation and accelerating properties, it is designed for mold manufacturing in polyester products. It is used in mold making because of its superior resistance to the aging effects of mold release agent and styrene. In general, the areas where this resin is used are as follows:

Chemical applications: Thanks to its bisphenolic structure, it is used in applications requiring the highest temperature and chemicals as it is not affected by chemicals. It can therefore also be utilized in the manufacture of industrial process equipment.
Electronic applications: Used for the protection and optimal bonding of electronic components. Thanks to its high insulation feature, it helps the safe use of electronic equipment. It also supports long-term use of devices.
Construction industry: Epoxies are widely used in durable and aesthetic looking floor coverings. In construction, it is also useful in waterproofing and concrete applications. It therefore has an effect that ensures the durability of floors, concrete and other structural elements.
Automotive sector: Composites are processed into vehicle equipment used in the automotive industry. It is also a material used in vehicle repair and painting processes. Thanks to its light weight, it enables efficient use of vehicle parts with light weight but high strength.
Packaging industry: It is used in the packaging industry, which enables the packaging of many products. It is preferred in the production of durable and useful packaging. It also works as an adhesive for labels.
Marine industry: Used for coating and bonding materials in shipbuilding. Thanks to its water and chemical resistance, it ensures long life of ships. At this point, the construction of the equipment in the composite production process is completed and supplied to the maritime sector.
Pool and bath facilities: Providing high resistance to water and chemicals, epoxies are used for equipment in pool and bath facilities. It performs particularly well on floor and wall coverings. It also has a protective effect when covering shower areas.

Properties of Epoxy Resin

The molecular properties of epoxy resingenerally consist of straight chains, ring-shaped structures and different groups. During the reaction, the molecular chain may elongate and cross-links may form between the chains. Cross-links do not result in very small molecules. Therefore, its shrinkage is very low and thanks to this feature, it stands out with its widespread use in various fields. The ring structures in the molecule of this resin are its most important structural feature. Thanks to this structure, it creates high chemical and heat resistance.

This product, which generally does not react with chemicals, can be used with different materials depending on the area of use. The structure of the resin can be varied to show different performances. Therefore, it is possible to see this resin in different properties. In general, resin products are available in the following varieties:

Lamination epoxy: General purpose and solvent free. Laminating epoxy is designed as a two-component for FRP composite applications and other general uses. It usually consists of a base resin and a hardener (catalyst) component.
General purpose epoxy: As it is a versatile material, it is commonly used as adhesives and coatings. General purpose epoxy is used for bonding various materials such as metal, wood and similar materials due to its high bonding strength. General purpose epoxy can also be used in the manufacture of automotive, marine and aircraft equipment.
Performance epoxy Performance epoxy is solvent and filler free. It offers a wide range of pot duration because it contains different B components. Suitable for processing with glass, carbon and aramid fiber reinforcements. This favorability makes the performance epoxy compatible with dynamic and static loads.
RTM epoxy RTM epoxy is designed for processing in RTM and infusion applications flow parameters. It has low viscosity properties.

In general, epoxy resin is characterized by high electrical resistance, high mechanical and chemical resistance. The adhesion strength of the product with polymer structure is high. Therefore, it is not affected by high temperatures and water. It offers a long-lasting use with non-volatile organic compounds. It is also resistant to strong cleaning agents and will not tarnish or rust.