Epoxy glue is a synthetic mixture of a resin or epoxy polymer and a hardener used to attach or join a variety of the same or different surfaces together with a strong, durable and resilient thermosetting bond that can withstand extreme stress and environmental conditions. Epoxy glue is also a filler that fills voids while in its liquid state before chemically curing without shrinkage.
Epoxy glue is available with the polymer and hardener in separate containers (two-part epoxy) or already mixed
Epoxy glue is used interchangeably with the terms resin glue, epoxy adhesive and adhesive agent.
Although epoxy glue is widely known as structural or engineering glue used in various industries, there are many other types of epoxy glues developed for a wide range of uses including applications on common articles at home. It is the variety of possible formulations that make epoxy glue exhibit properties suitable for a wide range of applications. What is important is for the users to know their requirements for the job so that they can choose the appropriate type of epoxy glue.
One-component epoxy glue is available in its liquid state but pre-catalyzed, which means that the hardener is included in the formulation. Heat is required to activate the hardener and start the curing process. One-component epoxy glue cures faster than two-component epoxy glue and eliminates mixing errors.Two-component epoxy glue cures at ambient temperature once the epoxy resin and the hardener are thoroughly mixed. The mixture will form a chemical bond with the surface it is in contact with. Curing can be completed after a few hours to days depending on the formulation. Curing can be accelerated by applying heat.
In addition to the curing time, other important factors to consider in choosing the most suitable epoxy glues are as follows:
The surfaces to be joined together - metal to metal or metal to a non metal surface such as wood, canvas, ceramic, rubber, plastic and many more
The environment to which the joint will be exposed, such as water, acids, corrosive substances or solvents, high temperature and many more.
Bond strength or resistance to stress or loads as required in manufacturing automobile, bicycles, boats, snowboards and more. One-component epoxy glues have higher resistance to stress or loads (about 35 or 40 MPa) than the two-component glues (over 30 Mpa). Most epoxy glue manufacturers provide technical data sheets to guide the buyers in choosing the most appropriate epoxy for their intended use.
