1. What epoxy resin really is
Epoxy resin is a two-part system: a resin (containing epoxide groups, most often DGEBA — bisphenol A diglycidyl ether) and a hardener (most commonly an amine). The chemical reaction between them creates a dense polymer network — hard, transparent and chemically resistant.
- ·What sets it apart from polyester and UV resin
- ·Exotherm — the most important parameter
Excerpt
Epoxy has far lower shrinkage (~1–3% vs 7–9% for polyester), better adhesion, no characteristic styrene smell, and is a two-part system with a longer working time. UV resin cures with light (thin layers only, <5 mm). Polyester is used for laminates and repairs; epoxy for anything where clarity, depth and strength matter.
