Best Epoxy Resin Mixing Method -Avoid Tacky Spots & Less Air Bubble -Improve Cured Epoxy Performance
Channel: The Epoxy Experts
Date: 2020-11-11

The resin system used in this demonstration is the MAX CLR A/B Resin system, an FDA Compliant resin system for direct food contact coatings application.
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This mixing procedure is applicable for any 2-component resin system regardless of the mix ratio. The resin and curing agent must be mixed thoroughly to eliminate problems such as tacky or uncured spots. Use the "two container method" as shown, which ensures a homogeneous mixture of the resin and curing agent. This mixing technique is recommended for direct food contact applications (coating, casting, or bonding) to ensure all the liquid components have cured solid.

Review the Product Technical Data Sheet to determine the proper mix ratio and working time value. Do not vary the mix ratio; adding more curing agents will not accelerate the cure rate and cause poor cured performance such as adhesion and durability.
Condition the temperature of the resin and curing agent to 75°F for best results. If the resin component is below 60°F, the viscosity will be thicker, causing excessive air bubble entrapment during mixing. The optimum mix and cure temperature is 70°F to 85°F.

STEP ONE. Determine the amount of mixed resin based on the application. Mixing a large batch at once can produce high exothermic heat. If the mixed resin is allowed to react in a large confined mass, the heat generated can result in an uncontrollable run-away reaction and produce temperatures above 300°F and cause personal injury.  Avoiding An Exothermic Run-Away Reaction; https://youtu.be/3uzRaSJFWo4 Measure the mix ratio accurately using a weighing scale, especially for mixing small batches, less than one fluid ounce. For measuring by volume, use a graduated container and measure the resin and curing components accurately. 

STEP TWO. Mix the components gently and thoroughly by hand using a stir stick or spatula for three to five minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of the container and do not mix too aggressively to avoid excessive air entrapment. The mixture will appear hazy at first and then becomes transparent as the mixture is blended uniformly. Scrape the bottom and sides of the mixing container and pour the mixture into a second container and continue mixing for an additional three minutes. This procedure ensures the two components are uniformly blended and cured with no tacky spots. Inspect for streaking or cloudiness before applying.

STEP THREE: APPLICATION Once thoroughly mixed, apply the resin within the established working time. Pour or use a brush or spreader-blade to apply the mixture. The working time and rate of cure are subject to ambient temperature conditions. The colder the temperature (during the winter months), the slower the applied resin will cure and faster during summer when the ambient temperature is warmer. The resin mixture is fluid and will flow and gather towards the lowest point. Ensure the surface is flat and leveled to yield a uniform coating thickness. Once applied, wait for 5 to 10 minutes to allow entrapped bubbles to rise to the surface, and use a hot air gun or an adjusted flame from a propane torch and quickly pass it over the surface to eliminate surface bubbles. Another method to eliminate air bubbles and aid in leveling and flow is to spray the surface lightly with acetone from a spray bottle. Allow bubbles to rise to the surface and lightly mist the surface with acetone spray. The acetone will evaporate from the surface and leave a smooth and bubble-free finish. 
Air Bubble Removal Technique;
https://youtu.be/2PKn-59pHNM

STEP FOUR: CURING Stabilize the ambient conditions to 70°F to 85°F and 30% to 70% maximum relative humidity for optimal cure conditions. The resin application will cure solid after 18 to 24 hours and can be handled for further processing. Full cure can take up to 3 to 5 days, depending on the ambient temperature. To accelerate the cure time, allow the resin to gel for 4 to 6 hours and then expose it to mild heat (130°F to 150°F for 3 hours) in a processing oven or infrared heat lamps to accelerate the final curing stage. 

For More Information, click the link below to view more video tutorials pertaining to epoxy resin use and applications:  https://bit.ly/3ePOaV4