Epoxy Vs. Resin Explained

So what is the difference between the epoxy and the resin, or are they the same?

Simply stated, the term epoxy is commonly used to refer to the cured end product of the necessary components within epoxy resin. It is also a colloquial name for epoxide.

This cured end product is the result of when you mix resin with hardener (two-part resins) or expose it to ultraviolet light (UV resin).

Epoxy resins, also known as polyepoxides, are a class of reactive prepolymers and polymers. Of course you can find where to buy resin for your project from our online store or other online sources, but you should know there isn't a "one size fits all" approach.

We specialize in manufacturing various epoxy resin types specific to several different types of uses. You can see a comparison chart detailing our various types of epoxy resin we manufacture by following this link here.

What Is A Resin?

In polymer chemistry and material science, the resin has been a solid or high viscous substance of plant or synthetic origin that is typically convertible into polymers. More recently, synthetic resins have been formulated using epichlorohydrin and diphenols, or bisphenol-A with epichlorohydrins.

There are several types of these combinations many with specialized formulas, but these are the most common epoxy resin

• Urethane resin
• Polyester resin
• Casting resin
• Epoxy coating resin

Urethane Resin

• This is a one-component water-based urethane that will protect your project with a nice glossy finish.
• These resins typically have a shorter working time.
• Excellent for coating metals, wood, and concrete.
• VOC-free
• Non-toxic
• virtually odor-free

Polyester Resins

• Cure very hard
• Polyester is less expensive than most epoxy resins
• That is commonly used in the marine industry such as boat building
• Used for the casting of bumpers or gutters and repair of plastic parts.

Casting Resin

• They are typically low viscous compared to epoxy coating resin
• They are made explicitly for casting works such as molds, figurines, filling wood, deep pour, and jewelry.
• Unlike coating resins, casting resins have a thinner consistency and take a longer time to dry. Casting resin takes a longer processing time, and it can take up to one week to cure completely.
• This thinning feature of casting resin allows it to penetrate and fill even the tiniest gaps and cavities.
• Casting resin allows you to cast thicker layers as compared to epoxy resin.
• The thin consistency enables layers of paint to mix quickly.
• Casting resin is specially made for particular applications.
• They can be colored with color pastes, alcohol inks, and color pigments.

Epoxy Resin for coatings

• That is mainly used coating applications
• Epoxy coating resin has a more viscous consistency as compared to casting resin.
• It dries or cures faster than casting resin.
• Compared to casting resin, epoxy coating resin has relatively shorter processing times.
• Because the ink layers do not mix, they can be better controlled.
• Epoxy coating is more resistant to mechanical influence as compared to casting resin.
• Epoxy coating is suitable on rougher surfaces and is water-resistant.
• They can be colored with color pastes, alcohol inks, and color pigments.

Additional Tips for Using Epoxy Resins

When working with epoxy resins, proper preparation and safety are crucial. Always ensure you wear protective clothing, gloves, and a breathing mask, especially in enclosed spaces. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for mixing ratios is vital for achieving the best results.

High-quality clear casting resin and proper mixing ratios lead to better results for your project. Misunderstanding whether to use casting resin or epoxy coating resin can be problematic. Feel free to reach out to our customer service for specific help, or start by researching our epoxy resin comparison chart by following this link here.

Common Applications of Epoxy Resins

Epoxy resins are incredibly versatile and are used in a wide variety of applications, including:

• Craft projects and DIY home improvements
• Industrial applications such as coatings for floors and surfaces
• Marine applications for boat building and repair
• Jewelry making and small casting projects
• Creating durable, decorative surfaces like countertops and bar tops

We also offer a range of colors, pigments, glitter, and other additives to customize your epoxy resin projects. For more information and to explore our products, visit our online store at The Epoxy Resin Store.

Safety Precautions:

It is important to always to wear protective clothing and a breathing mask when dealing with epoxy resin and especially if you are in a closed room to cast resin.

Using high-quality clear casting resin and proper mixing ratios gives you better results for your project. Not knowing whether to use casting resin or epoxy coating resin can be problematic for your project. Reach out to our customer service for specific help or start researching our epoxy resin comparison chart by following this link here.

We hope this guide was helpful. Let us know what you would like to create in the comments below.

**If you made it this far, we occasionally pick the best comment to win a giveaway. -hint-hint

We created a handy comparison guide to help understand the different properties of our epoxy resin. Just follow this link here.

The Epoxy Resin Store is an expert manufacturer of various epoxy resins for both craft projects and industrial applications. We also offer colors, pigments, glitter, and other additives for various epoxy resin projects. Explore our all-in-one store at The Epoxy Resin Store.

- All in one store - The Epoxy Resin Store
support@theepoxyresinstore.com
Phone: (951) 677-0400
Address: 540 Crane St suite A Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
https://www.theepoxyresinstore.com

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