It is essential to make sure that epoxy and hardener are mixed the right way, in the right amounts. If the products are not mixed the right way in the right parts, it can affect the curing process, leading to the epoxy resin not being cured properly.
Epoxy resin comes in two parts: Resin and hardener. Mixing the two substances prompts a chemical reaction between the two, transforming them from a liquid into a solid state. To ensure that your resin cures appropriately, it is essential to measure it accurately and mixed thoroughly.
MIXING RATIO
The mixing ratio depends on each product that you are using. Usually, it is 1:1 or 2:1 between the resin and hardener. There are also the more complicated ones such as 100:45. You can find the ratio of each product written on its packaging. The mixing ratio has to be very specific, or the resin will not cure properly. You can use an epoxy calculator to measure your epoxy resin and hardener.
WARM-UP YOUR EPOXY BEFORE MIXING
Before processing your epoxy resin, it is important to store it at a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius for 12 hours. A warm water bath may also help in bringing it to the needed temperature. If the epoxy is not at the required temperature, bubbles may form, which can be a little removed.
USING THE RIGHT TOOLS
The ideal tool that is recommended to use for mixing epoxy resin is a flat spatula. It is similar to a paint stirrer. The mixing tool’s sides need to be straight so that no residue is left on the sides of the mixing bowl.
MIXING THOROUGHLY
The mixing of the two substances needs to be done thoroughly. If the substances are not mixed properly, the result will not be very promising. You may be left with incompletely cured areas.
MIXING DIFFERENT BRANDS
Epoxy resin and hardeners of the same brand are manufactured in a way that they complement each other. Resin from a different brand and hardener from a different brand will not give you the optimum results. Different products of different brands MUST NOT BE MIXED, as it can lead to adverse reactions such as overheating.
WATER AND RESIN DO NOT GO TOGETHER
Synthetic resin and water or any type of moisture do not go hand in hand; this is because the resin is hydrophobic. All mixing materials must be clean and free of moisture before being used so that no unrequired reactions can occur.
KEEP YOUR PRODUCTS CLOSED
Hardeners can react sensitively on contact with air; it is advised not to open your hardeners when the humidity is above 65%.
If you want to shift your substances from one container to another, make sure that the container that you’re shifting to is clean and dry so that no reactions will take place in that container.
If you take Resin and hardener out of your container or bin, it should be done with a clean tool so that no reactions take place in the container.
COLOURS AND PIGMENTS
Not all types of colors and pigments can be used with epoxy resin. When coloring with epoxy resin, it is important to make sure that the color is suitable to use with the resin. It is also recommended to make sure that the colors that you are using are compatible with each other.
Here are some extra TIPS & TRICKS that can help you while working with resin:
- For larger quantities, we recommend using a bucket with a nozzle.
- Eliminate bubbles using a torch and thinning the epoxy out.
- Clean-up using denatured alcohol instead of acetone.
- ALWAYS make a small batch as a sample first.
- Remember to sand gloss surfaces to ensure good adhesion.
- Warm resin wets out better and cures faster
- You can use a measuring cup to measure your liquids; this way, you can overlook density.
- NEVER use any type of solvents when working with resin, especially if you encounter the resin. The solvents can cause the resin to be absorbed into the skin, causing you harm.
