Polyester Resin
Polyester Resin
Polyester Resin
Epoxy resin has a variety of positive benefits when used for your DIY projects.
Unfortunately, there are also two major drawbacks: this type of resin costs quite a bit
and it has to be blended precisely to get the best results. If you are a beginner, this could
pose a problem, and looking for an alternative might be a better option. This is where
polyester resin comes in, we will be getting into all the interesting facts about poly
resins. The article will also deal with what to consider when purchasing good quality
polyester resin and we will be measuring it up against epoxy resin.
Note: There are also food-grade poly resins available, but always check with the
manufacturer or read the technical datasheet to see if it does have this ability.
The food-safe polyester resin should not produce any toxic materials and should
not alter the taste of food.
There are many applications, from creating molds to casting in molds, in building boats
to casting gutters and bumpers. Poly resins are great for repairing plastic components.
The clear polyester resin is used in Jacuzzis, ponds, swimming pools, and other outdoor
applications. Other applications include:
Epoxy resin is best at resisting peeling, wearing, and cracking. Also, it is corrosion
resistant and can also withstand environmental and chemical deterioration. Polyester
resin is less durable than epoxy resin and is better suited for short-term fixes. The
epoxy also costs more than the poly resins because of its ultimate durability and
formulation prerequisites. Since we are dealing with Polyester resin, let us now have a
closer look at some pros and cons:
Pros
You can choose from a variety of reinforcement materials such as glass fiber mats or fabrics
and glass filament fabric. These added items provide more stability. Epoxy resin, however,
can also combine with glass filament as well as aramid and carbon fabrics
Poly resins are less expensive, which is great for larger amounts. Compare prices for a
better idea of costs
The working time for polyester resin can be adjusted to your needs. Simply alter the amount
of hardener when blending with the liquid resin. Always read and keep to the directions
given by the manufacturer. You can add from 1.0 % to 2.5 %. When it comes to epoxy resin,
the two-part components must be blended precisely, if not, the resin will not cure correctly
and can become weak
Since you can alter the working time, you have more flexibility and can focus a bit more on
your design without having to rush things. You have a lot less time when working with epoxy
resin
Acceptable resistance to some chemicals and water
Relatively low shrinkage
Sufficient resistance to aging and weathering
Cons
When it comes to the mechanical properties of poly resins, they fall below epoxy resins
which are stronger in many ways. Epoxy resin can also be used on different surfaces,
while polyester resin, may cost less, but cannot adhere to smooth surfaces like metal
or glass
The poly resins produce toxic fumes, which contain styrene. These fumes also linger,
so it is better to work with these resins outside. Epoxy resin can be used inside, as it
creates little or no fumes
In boatbuilding, when compared to polyester resin, epoxy resin is more water-resistant
No matter what kind of repair or rebuilding project you are doing, this polyester
resin by Bondo offers the ideal solution. This resin can be used alone for
resurfacing as a sealer. This works very well over old wood or damaged
surfaces. It can also be utilized alongside fiberglass to create rigid structures.
The Bondo 3M resin mixes easily and offers convenient use. Getting the right
consistency doesn’t take too much effort. The robust resin can be painted over with just
about anything once it has cured, and can be sanded down with minimal effort. This
polyester resin can be used on a wide range of different surfaces – including wood,
masonry, metal, and fiberglass. Once applied, you get a highly durable and long-lasting
bond between the surfaces. It also features a waterproofing formula which makes it a
great product choice for various resurfacing jobs.
Pros
Cons
The Best Kit for Polyester Resin: POLYMER PLANET Fiberglass Repair Kit
If you are after a complete kit that contains everything you need for getting
started with polyester resin work, then this option by Polymer Planet would be the
best bet. This resin kit contains a gallon of resin with sufficient hardener, as well
as a fiberglass mat. There is enough material here to work over a large surface
area.
Best Fiberglass Cloth: BONDO 3M Fiberglass Cloth
Working with polyester resin will require a quality fiberglass cloth for best results.
This 3M fiberglass cloth by Bondo offers just the right qualities for great
performance. There are interlocking strands on the fiberglass which help to cover
up holes effectively. This also makes the fiberglass easier to cut down to size
with scissors and can be used on all kinds of projects.
This fiberglass is fully waterproof and works very well for waterproofing certain areas or
covering up holes or cracks. The cured product can be sanded down pretty easily and
painted over with all kinds of paints. The fiberglass can be used over all kinds of
different surfaces and areas. It offers excellent structure and durability when combined
with polyester resin, while still being easy to work with. This is thanks to its thinner
qualities.
Pros
Cons
Depending on your project, it is a good idea to know what to look out for when
buying poly resins.
Always go for reputable, well-known, and reliable manufacturers. It does not pay
to go for the cheapest option, as the final result may not cure correctly, and your
project will be ruined.
When it comes to mold making and laminating, the glass fiber mats come in
varying thicknesses. Also, there many different polyester resin products and it
can be overly complicating. It is best to do a bit of research on the subject,
especially if you are a beginner. Inform yourself, this will pay off in the end
What Materials are needed for Application?
What you need will depend on what you are doing, but the basic supplies include the
following. We will also have a look at how to handle polyester resin, laminating, and
creating a negative mold using polyester resin.
Materials needed:
Gather all the materials before you begin working, you want
everything at hand when you are busy with the resin.
Make sure the surface you are working with is clean, remove any dirt, grease, or
dust
Sand the surface and clean off any grease with acetone
If using a mold, apply a release agent, which will aid in the removal of the resin
casting
The entire process depends on the application, so we are going to now have a
look at laminating and creating a mold. Molds come in both positive and negative
forms, negative molds are great for things like model making or car body parts.
Positive molds are used more for pond and swimming pool manufacturing.
The surface you are repairing, or laminating should first be prepared and cleaned
Apply a layer of polyester resin onto the surface or substrate
Take your prepared glass fiber mat and lay it on top of the resin
You can use a brush on the fiberglass mat, a roller will also work
You can get cut or frayed glass fiber mats, the frayed option works better when
dealing with overlaps
Apply a second coat of resin, the polyester fiberglass resin will be pliable and can
be formed
Make sure that while you are applying the resin, no glittery or white areas remain.
This means there is either not enough or too much resin
Once the entire surface is covered by fiberglass resin, you can then remove any
bubbles using the brush or roller. If you are busy with a fairly large area, you can
use a specialized ventilation roller.
After everything has dried properly, you can paint a topcoat of polyester resin.
This will weatherproof the area. First, you will need to do a bit of sanding before
painting. During this step, you can also add color pigment to the resin
As soon as you are done, you will need to clean your work tools. Some resin
would have remained on the surface of your tools, so remove as soon as
possible with some acetone. If the resin dries, the only way you can remove it is
if you sand it off
Ensure your master mold is clean and smooth, you do not want any corners or
overhangs. Doing this now will ensure less work later with extra milling and
grinding during finishing
Seal any joints with plasticine, press pieces in, and remove excess with a knife
Next, apply some release wax and release agent
Apply the Gel coat in a single direction to avoid the presence of air
Put on the glass fiber mat and then apply the polyester resin
Allow to gel slightly. You can test by seeing if it still pulls any threads
Carry on doing layer by layer while each coat is still wet
Finally, let the mold completely harden and cure
Remove the mold with the plastic wedge
The curing time for the polyester resin is mainly dependent on the product, but also a
few other things. You can have a look at the manufacturers’ datasheet, which should
come with the product you bought.
Most synthetic resins available fully cure at 20°C to 25°C, but others need higher
temperatures and, these are treated with heat. Also known as tempering.
Tempering Process
The polyester resin goes through a chemical process when curing, becoming thicker
until it achieves a gelling point. The resin then becomes fully hard or completely cures.
When higher temperatures are produced, the pot time or working time is reduced. This
is because the resin is less viscous. In cooler temperatures, the working and curing time
are increased, sometimes up to seven days.
Note: When a focused and even heat is applied, this can advance the composition
to augment the mechanical properties. When applying this tempering process,
you should remove any air bubbles that form. This is to inhibit any weakening in
the final structure.
Including an Inhibitor
If you are looking to increase your processing time, adding an inhibitor is one way of
doing this. These chemical compounds will then set back the process of curing. This is
especially helpful if you are working with a substantial amount of polyester resin. How
many inhibitors should you add? The general rule is if you include 0.2% of inhibitor, you
will be doubling your processing time. Add 0.5% and it increases. We do not
recommend adding the inhibitor to the gelcoat, as it may affect its structure.
Polyester resin can be colored just like epoxy resin but be mindful, as the colors can
affect the structure of the final finish. Synthetic resins involve a delicate balance of
hardener and resin. By including other elements, could upset this balance and
create changes in the structure and appearance of the resin.
In other words, when adding color, these will influence the resin viscosity, which
then affects the process of curing. Therefore, always make sure you use suitable
color elements, specifically designed color pigments and pastes for polyester resin.
Also, in most cases, the original color might differ from the color in the resin once it
has cured. So, to achieve the results you want, it might be necessary to carry out a
few test samples before heading off to your main project. This might sound
tedious, but it will save money and time.
Dumping
Stir the color in
Slow dripping
Take note when the resin viscosity changes, this might be a bit difficult at
first but with experience, you should get it right. When adding color to more
viscous resin, you will find it difficult to blend the color uniformly. Also, if the
resin is too thin, the color will form streaks.
The polyester resin in its liquid form is toxic, so taking some precautions are
necessary. Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated, or even better work
outside. Wear a respirator mask, protective eyewear, gloves, and clothing. Your skin
should never come into direct contact with the resin.
Do not work in living spaces like the living room, as the resin gives off toxic fumes
during the curing process. Do not work with resin near an open fire or smoke while
working. Try to avoid getting any polyester resin on surfaces you are not working
on, as it is difficult to remove once cured. Lay some newspaper around your
workspace to prevent this. However, if the resin has not cured yet and you act
quickly, you can remove it with acetone. Unfortunately, the resin cannot be
removed if it lands on a porous surface.
Note: If you are using a cobalt accelerator and ketone peroxide during cold
curing, always add the two elements one at a time. Never add them and blend
at the same time, as it will cause deflagration.
Once you are done working, close the resin containers and store them in a cool
dark place. Store the resin in its original container, do not place it in a new one. This
should help keep the resin for at least six months if at room temperature. Some
products like MEKP hardeners need to be used soon, as it could begin to absorb
water. This, in turn, could affect the structure of the top layers once applied.
Those just starting with resins may find polyester resin easier to blend and
cheaper to buy. Although, safety must be taken into account
When working with polyester resin castings and there are seams or noses,
use a sharp tool like a knife or a file to remove. There are also different saws
you can use, but wear a respirator and work in a well-ventilated space, as
fumes are produced due to the friction
You can use a release agent on surrounding surfaces when working with
polyester resin. This makes it easier to remove any spots when you are done
Right-angles are never good when using polyester resin, as it forms a weak
spot. To prevent this issue, you should try using a hollow trowel
Apply a protective layer over your cured resin to make it weatherproof and
resistant to UV light. Can also protect the resin against things like chlorinated
water in pools
During the curing process, protect your project from UV light exposure. This
could damage the structure and ruin the finish
When using polyester resin over a larger area, you will have a longer
processing time, as it does not heat as quickly. To make it easy to mix the
resin and hardener, use a flat broad tub or pour the already mixed resin into
the tub for a better mixing process
Questions and Answers
Is Polyester Resin Combustible?
Yes, they are flammable with a flashpoint of 32° (90°F), only if it has a styrene
monomer. Other resins that have methyl methacrylate monomer tend to have
lower lash points, all depending on how much there is present. There is a chemical
reaction between the resin and hardener during the curing process. This is called
an exothermic reaction. If this reaction becomes uncontrollable, it can start to foam
and give off smoke and noxious gases. It could produce enough heat to melt the
container it is in and can even trigger nearby items to ignite.
Polyester resins can be used as a bulk molding compound, in sheet molding, and as
the toner of a laser printer to name a few. First, what is poly resin? These are
unsaturated synthetic resins formed by a reaction of polyhydric alcohols and
organic acids. It can take many forms and is valuable in a variety of industries.
This will depend on the type of application; the polyester resin is perfect for minor
repairs that are gel coated. When compared to epoxy resin, poly resins do appear
to be less superior. It acts as a passable adhesive but does meet epoxy resin
standards. Polyester resin has a weaker bond than epoxy, which makes epoxy a
better choice for things like fiberglass resin repairs.
Yes, when working with polyester resin and you do not follow the prescribed safety
procedures, it can cause problems. These include things like burns, skin, and
allergic reactions. Breathing it in can also cause various health issues. The styrene
and organic peroxides present can cause burns, and styrene is also considered a
carcinogen. Always wear a respirator, protective goggles, and clothing. Also, work in
a well-ventilated space.
How can you Identify Polyester Resin?
Mostly, the synthetic resins appear thick and are pale in color. The liquid is made up
of polyester in a monomer, typically styrene. By adding styrene, sometimes up to
50%, aids in reducing the viscosity which can then be processed more easily.
What Differences are there between Polyester Resin and Fiberglass Resin?
Following our advice and keeping to the rules when using polyester resin, you
will be able to construct amazing ideas and projects.
أسئلة وأجوبة
هل راتنجات البوليستر قابلة لالحتراق؟
نعم ،إنها قابلة لالشتعال مع نقطة اشتعال 32
درجة ( 90درجة فهرنهايت) ،فقط إذا كان بها
مونومر ستيرين .تميل الراتنجات األخرى التي
تحتوي على مونومر ميثيل ميثاكريالت إلى الحصول
على نقاط رموش أقل ،وكل ذلك يعتمد على مقدار
وجودها .يوجد تفاعل كيميائي بين الراتينج
والمصلب أثناء عملية المعالجة .وهذا ما يسمى
برد فعل طارد للحرارة .إذا أصبح هذا التفاعل
ال يمكن السيطرة عليه ،يمكن أن يبدأ في تكوين
رغوة وإطالق دخان وغازات ضارة .يمكن أن ينتج
حرارة كافية إلذابة الحاوية الموجودة فيه
ويمكنه حتى اشتعال العناصر القريبة.
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