The changes that have been introduced in the wood industry is growing day by day. The combination of wood and resin is the newest invention in the woodworking field. Resin is a very sticky natural or synthetic material and is generally dissolved in alcohol but is not soluble in water.
According to the chemical composition and their uses, resins are classified into different types. It is also widely used in the wood industry and even in the arts. Natural resin comes from plants. The best example is the pine sap. The beautiful amber stone is gained by the hardening of the plant’s resin.
For many years, humans have used natural resins. With the advancement in technology, we are discovering artificial resins, which are cheaper. Epoxy is a synthetic resin used in various industries. You can check the complete Pouring guide before you start.
What do you understand by the term epoxy resin?
In 1934, Paul Schlitz was the first researcher to manufacture epoxy resins successfully. Epoxy resin is a chemical compound that is made from the reaction of a chemical called epoxy and hardeners such as polyamide.
Here we do not want to discuss the chemical composition of the epoxy resin, but we are trying to express its properties. Between the properties of the epoxy resin, the following points may be considered:
- Resistance to chemical materials
- High resistance to water and humidity
- Strong against shocks
- Excellent adhesion to the material
- Transparency
Take a look on the types of epoxy resins
Types of epoxy resins
In terms of drying, epoxy resins are categorized into two general categories.
- single-component epoxy resin
- Multi-component epoxy resin
Single-component resins dry immediately in the proximity of air for a variety of adhesives and materials used to polish old stones.
The second type is a multi-component resin, which, for drying (called the baking step), requires additional materials that cook and dry them.
Because it is an internal reaction, these resins can be used for volumetric work. Single-component resins generally do not have this property.
Now take a glimpse of epoxy resins for wood
Wood epoxy is similar to regular epoxy, but it was formed for woodworking.
The specifications of epoxy wood are slightly different, but you can use it on other surfaces and without any limitation, but do not expect the wanted result.
We can suggest that you use epoxy wood for woodworking. Wood epoxies must be:
- Colorless
- Should Not have bubbles
- Must not be thick
- Be moisture resistant
Those who know, or even have an interest in carpentry and woodworking, can try to do great things on their own and perhaps sell them for money.
How to use epoxy resin
The sequence of the hardener and the epoxy resin originates a chemical reaction that transforms it from liquid to solid. The epoxy and hardener rate and their complete mixing is an essential factor during its good cooking.
Mix the epoxy resin and the hardener according to the recommended technical specifications in a plastic container.
Avoid using glass containers due to the thermal agitation of the mixed reaction. Before applying epoxy to the work surface, you should pay attention to the following points:
The surface of the work must be free of any contamination, such as grease, oil, or dirt, before being bonded with epoxy.
Clean off every dust with slight alcohol or other cleaners, then dry the surface with paper cloths. When handling solvents, be sure to take care of its safety advice.
