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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find the most important answers about epoxy resin , colors, accessories and the correct application. Whether you need tips on processing, dosing or avoiding mistakes - our FAQ will help you to successfully implement your projects. If your question is not included, please contact us!
Shipping & Returns
Below are some common questions about shipping, returns, and exchanges
What is epoxy resin and what is it used for?
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What types of epoxy resin are there?
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Is epoxy resin toxic or harmful to health?
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Is the resin food safe?
Epoxy resin is generally never 100% food safe due to its chemical composition of two components. A certificate for "food safe" is only ever given for finished cast end products. Our resin is therefore not declared as food safe in its liquid state. Many of our customers use the resin for tables, jewelry and vessels. When hardened, contact with skin or food is not a concern.
How much epoxy resin do I need?
One kilo of pre-mixed epoxy resin can be used to coat one square meter with a layer thickness of one millimeter. Please note that the size of the surface varies due to material wear or a different layer thickness.
Approximation rule: 1 kg resin = 1 m² surface = 1 mm thick layer
To calculate your individual quantity, please use our quantity calculator.
Which materials can I combine with epoxy resin?
Epoxy resin adheres well to wood, metal, glass, concrete, stone and many plastics. Natural materials such as leaves or dried flowers can also be poured in, but they should be well dried. Flexible plastics such as PE or PP are not suitable, as the resin does not adhere to them. In addition, certain materials such as silicone or oily woods can cause problems with adhesion. The material should always be tested for compatibility with epoxy resin before use.
Heat resistance of epoxy resin
Epoxy resin is known for its excellent properties, however it is not completely heat or fire resistant. It can withstand high temperatures, but it is important to keep it away from very hot objects, such as hot pans or pots.
It is also worth knowing that at constant heat of around 55°C the epoxy resin changes its state from solid to rubbery. Nevertheless, it is suitable for use as a worktop in the kitchen as long as very hot objects do not come into direct contact with the resin. It should also not be used as a coaster for tea or coffee cups unless it is protected against the heat with a special protective varnish.
In summary, epoxy resin is a good choice for use in high temperature areas as long as it is kept away from very hot objects and, if necessary, is protected from the heat.
Epoxy resin for outdoor use: possible applications & UV protection
Epoxy resin is perfect for outdoor projects. With our universal resin (E45) you can easily implement projects with a low resin thickness. To avoid discoloration due to UV radiation, we recommend using color pigments or a special UV protective coating.
If your project exceeds a layer thickness of 10mm, you should use our thick-layer resin (D600). This resin can be poured up to 10cm high in one step and already offers good UV protection. This means you can implement your project outdoors safely and durably.
However, 100% protection against yellowing can never be guaranteed, as the degree of yellowing always depends on the intensity and duration of UV radiation. However, each of our resins has a built-in UV filter.
Mixing and Processing
Can you combine your different resin systems?
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How do I mix epoxy resin correctly?
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What happens if I don't follow the mixing ratio exactly?
The ratio of resin and hardener is crucial for successful curing. A deviation of more than +/- 5% can affect the molecular composition and thus also affect the result.
Too much epoxy resin can lead to a sticky surface, while too much hardener has a crystalline effect on the surface. To achieve an optimal result, it is therefore important to strictly adhere to the intended mixing ratio.
Why does the surface of epoxy resin remain sticky after days?
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Processing of epoxy resin at high and low temperatures
When working with epoxy systems, it is important to keep an eye on the ambient temperature, as it can speed up or slow down the reaction of the material.
At high temperatures above 20°C, the resin reacts faster than usual and may even harden prematurely. Therefore, do not try to pour when the outside or room temperature is too warm. If necessary, cool the temperature of the room down.
On the other hand, cold resin reacts more slowly. To achieve optimal workability, the cold-stored resin and hardener should be brought to room temperature for 2-3 hours before use.
Use epoxy resin at the correct temperatures to achieve optimal results.
How can I properly sand and polish epoxy resin?
Before you begin sanding and polishing, it is crucial that the epoxy is fully cured, otherwise you risk damaging the surface, which can result in additional work and time.
sanding the epoxy resin
Begin the sanding process with coarse sandpaper (80 to 120 grit) to remove any irregularities or raised areas. Make sure to apply even pressure to achieve a uniform surface. Use an orbital sander or hand sander to ensure an efficient and consistent sanding motion.
Be careful not to apply too much heat to the resin surface, as this can cause clouding. Wet sanding can help with this. After the rough imperfections have been smoothed out, gradually switch to finer sandpaper (240 to 3000 grit) to further smooth the surface and prepare it for polishing. During sanding, it is important to clean the surface regularly to check progress and ensure that all scratches and irregularities are removed.
polishing the epoxy resin
Once the surface is completely sanded and smoothed, it's time to polish the epoxy to achieve a shiny and professional look. Use a polishing machine with a soft polishing attachment to achieve an even and high-gloss finish. Choose a high-quality polishing paste that is specifically designed for epoxy surfaces.
Apply the polish evenly to the surface and buff in a steady circular motion to achieve an even finish. Be careful not to leave the polisher in one place for too long to avoid overheating, which could cause damage. After polishing, clean the surface thoroughly to ensure no polish residue remains.
Final cleaning and sealing
After polishing, it is important to clean the surface thoroughly to remove all residues of abrasives and polishes. To do this, use a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth in combination with a mild detergent.
Be careful not to use harsh cleaning agents as these could cause scratches. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a high-quality sealer to protect the epoxy from scratches, scuffs and environmental influences. Choose a sealer specifically designed for epoxy surfaces to ensure long-lasting protection and shine.
Advanced techniques and tips for professional surface treatments
For professional finishes and demanding projects, more advanced techniques may be required to achieve the best possible results. Here are some advanced tips that can help you further improve your epoxy sanding and polishing skills:
1. Wet sanding technique : This technique involves wetting the sandpaper with water to allow for better surface smoothing and less dust generation. This can result in a smoother finish and make the sanding process easier.
2. Using high gloss polishes : Invest in high quality high gloss polishes and waxes specifically designed for epoxy resin surfaces. These products can help create an impressive mirror effect and enhance the brilliance and clarity of the surface.
3. Use of specialized polishing tools: For demanding surface treatments, specialized polishing tools such as high-performance polishing machines and specially designed polishing attachments can offer a huge improvement in efficiency and quality. These tools enable precise and controlled polishing that can result in a flawless finish.
4. Layering and multiple polishing : For projects that require extra smoothness and brilliance, it may be necessary to apply multiple coats of epoxy and sand and polish between coats. This layering can result in an extra deep and glossy finish that looks impressive and professional.
Do I have to pay attention to the casting height?
Yes, definitely! We recommend not pouring more than the maximum recommended layer thickness per pass. Example: Universal resin E45 (max. 1cm layer thickness): If you want to pour a 3cm layer, for example, you should pour 1cm first. After about 6-8 hours you can pour the second 1cm layer and then after another 6-8 hours the third 1cm layer. This will prevent the resin from heating up too much and causing unwanted cracks. In the end, you will not be able to see any demarcation between the individual layers and you will have a clear transition.
Our D600 thick-film resin is suitable for casting heights of 10 cm. The chemical formulation in the hardener has been modified so that a strong exothermic reaction is delayed as much as possible by the extended curing time.
Please note, however, that if the volume is too large (e.g. river table), it may still heat up. For this reason, we recommend pouring the thick layer in several steps.
The maximum cast layer thickness depends on the total volume to be cast and the ambient temperature. The greater the volume, the lower the maximum casting height. More details and graphics can be found on the D600 product detail page.
Can I coat already cured epoxy resin with new, uncured epoxy resin?
Yes , provided the bottom layer has already completely hardened, a new layer can be poured on very easily. Please ensure that the hardened layer is free of foreign bodies, as well as grease, oil and moisture. If the first pour was made more than 3 days ago, we recommend sanding the bottom layer with 150 grit sandpaper.
The resin is slightly milky on the surface, what can I do?
The following are possible causes for your problem: The material was not mixed 100 percent evenly and intensively or the mixing ratio was not exactly correct.
Suggested solution: 1st option: Please coat the milky areas with colorless brandy vinegar (slightly diluted with water) and wait about 30 minutes and then rinse with clean water. (Acetone and isopropanol are also good solvents)
2nd option: Sand the milky surfaces with 240 grit sandpaper so that the milky surface is gone. Then apply a thin layer of new resin to the entire surface again using a roller or brush and, if necessary, polish it after it has hardened.
My resin has boiled, burst or cracked. Is the resin defective?
Our resin undergoes permanent quality and safety tests according to the highest German standards. This means we can guarantee consistently consistent quality and an optimal epoxy resin for a wide range of applications.
Chemical reactions (exothermic reactions) such as boiling or flaking and cracking of the resin are due to the following application errors:
The resin was poured much higher than stated in the instructions. Caution! Even during the pot life, the mixed resin should not be left to rest for too long or at too high a height (e.g. in the mixing bucket).
Materials that have come into contact with the epoxy resin were damp, oily or greasy. Caution! When working with wood, please ensure that the wood is adequately sealed. Otherwise, the wood can absorb moisture and move. This can lead to the epoxy resin chipping off in projects that have already been completed.
To save a failed project, the faulty epoxy resin can be removed. Foamed or sticky areas can be treated with spirit, acetone or brandy vinegar. After complete cleaning, hollow spaces can be filled with new resin.
Why is the D600 thick film resin milky and lumpy?
Epoxy resins generally tend to what is known as "crystallization." This effect is mainly observed in the cold season. The resin component (A) may show whitish discoloration and also a change in consistency. This is often milky, lumpy or very solid. The phenomenon described is not a defect but a chemical reaction to cold temperatures during shipping or storage and is similar to the freezing of water. If the component is placed in a water bath at 60-70°C for around 20-60 minutes (or placed on the heater), the resin can completely liquefy again. The resin can then be used normally again. Please allow the epoxy resin to cool down to room temperature before use.
coloring and effects
Can I color the epoxy resin?
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What colors are available for coloring epoxy resin?
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How much dye do I need to color epoxy resin?
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Safety and Storage
How should you store epoxy resin?
For optimal storage of epoxy resins, it is important to seal the containers airtight and store them away from light. The shelf life of epoxy resins is on average 12 months. If this time is exceeded, quality losses can occur. The optimal storage temperature is between 10°C and 25°C.
How can epoxy resin be disposed of properly?
Epoxy resin must be disposed of responsibly, as it is a hazardous waste in its liquid state. Here are some guidelines on how to dispose of epoxy resin and its residues correctly:
1. Allow to harden:
– Before disposing of epoxy resin, allow any leftover resin to cure completely. This can be accelerated by using the normal curing time or by applying additional heat.
2. Waste separation:
– Hardened epoxy resin can be disposed of in household waste. Liquid epoxy resin falls under the category of “hazardous waste”. Therefore, it should not be disposed of in household waste. Instead, it must be handed in to a local hazardous waste collection point or recycling center.
3. Disposal at the collection point:
– Hazardous goods collection points or special acceptance points for hazardous waste can usually be found at recycling centers or waste disposal sites. Here you can safely dispose of the hardened epoxy resin.
4. Dispose of small quantities free of charge:
– In many cases, the disposal of small quantities of commercially available hazardous waste is free of charge. Ask your local recycling center for the exact conditions.
It is important to observe local rules and regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal, as these may vary by region.
What dangers and risks are there?
It is important to be aware of the potential hazards and risks associated with handling epoxy resin and to take appropriate safety precautions to protect yourself and others from potential health risks.
Dangers and risks of epoxy resin:
1. Skin and respiratory irritation:
Epoxy resin can cause irritation and allergies if it comes into contact with unprotected skin. The chemicals in the resin can attack the skin and cause serious irritation. In addition, the fumes released during the curing process can cause respiratory irritation and health problems.
2. Toxic ingredients:
Some components of epoxy resin are potentially toxic. When heated or handled improperly, dangerous fumes can be released that can cause serious health problems. Direct contact with these chemicals can cause acute or long-term health problems.
3. Fire hazard:
Epoxy resin is a flammable substance. If handled or stored improperly, fires and dangerous situations can occur. The resulting fires can spread quickly and cause significant property damage and injuries.
Correct working method with epoxy resin:
1. Personal protective equipment (PPE):
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment to protect yourself from the potential risks of epoxy resin. This includes protective gloves, safety glasses and a respirator to protect the skin from direct contact and the respiratory tract from inhaling fumes.
2. Ventilation:
To reduce the concentration of fumes and minimize the risk of respiratory irritation, ensure you always work in well-ventilated areas. Ideally, work outdoors to ensure maximum air circulation.
3. Avoid direct skin contact:
If you come into contact with epoxy resin, wash your skin thoroughly with soap and water to reduce possible irritation. Washing thoroughly can prevent chemicals from penetrating the skin and causing unwanted reactions.
4. Safe handling of chemicals:
Store epoxy resin and all related chemicals in a cool, well-ventilated place, out of reach of children and pets. Also avoid exposure to heat or fire to minimize the risk of chemical reactions or fires.
5. Follow safety guidelines:
To minimize the risk of accidents and health problems, always follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines and instructions. Take the time to read and understand the instructions carefully and do not hesitate to ask for additional information if you are unclear about anything.
What safety measures should be observed?
When working with epoxy resin, safety measures are essential to avoid health risks.
Important safety measures
Well-ventilated work area : Epoxy resin can release fumes that may irritate the respiratory system. Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid direct skin contact : Epoxy resins and hardeners can cause allergies and skin irritation. Always wear suitable protective equipment.
Keep away from children : Epoxy resins are hazardous materials and should be stored and used responsibly. Please keep your material out of the reach of children.
Recommended protective equipment
Protective gloves protect against skin contact.
Respirator mask with activated carbon filter reduces the inhalation of vapors.
Safety glasses or face protection prevent splashes in the eyes.
Long-sleeved clothing provides additional protection for the skin.