Epoxy – The Adhesive and Encapsulating resin of choice

Epoxy is an incredibly versatile material capable of bonding, coating, encapsulating and potting virtually any two surfaces or materials together. What makes it so attractive is its ability to bond more than just plastic to metal; it’s chemical formulation allows it to create incredibly strong chemical and physical bonds between dissimilar materials and substrates, including, glass, ceramic, metal, and even wood.

What makes up epoxy?

Epoxy is comprised of two resins which chemically react with one another, forming a cross linked network which provides the adhesion. The two components usually consist of a resin and a hardener, each of which requires a separate chemical reaction to work. The resin is soluble in a range of solvents and contains reactive groups which will react with each other and to the hardener. The hardener is a catalyst or activator, it helps to speed up the cross linking process and provide the almost instant curing process we are used to with epoxy.

Applications and Uses

Epoxy is widely used as an adhesive, coatings, encapsulant and potting material in many areas, particularly in a range of industries such as aircraft, automotive, electrical and electronics, marine, food processing, medical, military and telecommunications. It has the unique ability to form strong, permanent bonds to various surfaces, including the notoriously difficult surfaces glass, ceramic, metal and wood. It can also be used for laminating, potting, sealing, bonding, reinforcing and coating of materials.

Epoxy has become the material of choice due to its incredible strength and durability combined with easy application and competitive pricing. Its excellent chemical resistance and shock absorbsion makes it a reliable material for waterproofing and sealing, as well as providing protection to vital components and preventing corrosion.

Conclusion

Epoxy is a material of choice when it comes to bonding, coating, encapsulating and potting virtually any two surfaces or materials together. Because of its unique adhesive properties, chemical and physical properties, it has become a material of choice for a variety of industries. It stands out amongst other adhesives due to its incredible strength and durability combined with competitive pricing and ease of use. It is an incredibly versatile material, capable of forming strong and permanent bonds between dissimilar materials, including notoriously difficult substrates such as glass, ceramic, metal and even wood.