What Is Epoxy Resin?
The family of basic elements or dried end products known as epoxy includes epoxy resins. The collection of reactive prepolymers and polymers known as epoxy resins, commonly referred to as polyepoxides, include epoxide groups. Epoxy is another name for the functional group made up of epoxides. An oxirane is the term given to an epoxide group by the IUPAC.
What Epoxy Resin Reacts With?
Epoxy resins can react (cross-link) with a variety of co-reactants, such as polyfunctional amines, acids (including acid anhydrides), phenols, alcohols, and thiols, as well as with themselves through catalytic homopolymerization (usually called mercaptans). The cross-linking reaction is frequently referred to as curing, and these co-reactants are frequently referred to as hardeners or curatives.A thermosetting polymer is created when polyepoxides react with one another or with polyfunctional hardeners. This polymer frequently has good mechanical properties and great thermal and chemical resistance. Metal coatings, composites, electrical components (such as chips on board), LEDs, high-tension electrical insulators, paint brush manufacture, fiber-reinforced plastic materials, and adhesives for structural and other purposes are just a few of the many uses for epoxy.
Health Risks Involved
Epoxy resin compounds have a number of health hazards that can include contact dermatitis, allergic responses, and respiratory issues from breathing vapor and sanding dust, especially when they are not fully cured. Uncured liquid epoxy resins are typically categorized as skin and eye irritants as well as harmful to aquatic life. Epoxy resins in solid form are typically safer than epoxy resins in liquid form, and many of them are considered non-hazardous compounds. Sensitization is one concern that is specific to epoxy resins. Epoxy resins that contain low molecular weight epoxy diluents have been demonstrated to carry a greater risk. Epoxy resin exposure can eventually cause an allergic reaction. Sensitization typically happens as a result of prolonged exposure (for example, due to poor working hygiene or a lack of protective equipment).
The Production Of Epoxy Resin
The market for epoxy resins was estimated to be worth 9.1 billion dollars in 2021 and is expected to reach 14.7 billion dollars in revenue by 2028, growing at a CAGR of around 6.8% from 2022 to 2028. The Asia-Pacific region dominates the epoxy resin market, accounting for 55.2% of the global market share. China is the world’s largest producer and user, accounting for over 35% of resin output. About 50–100 producers of fundamental or commodity epoxy resins and hardeners serve the world market. About 323,000 tonnes of epoxy resin were produced in Europe in 2017, with sales of €1,055 million. The top five markets in Europe for epoxy resins are Germany, Italy, France, the UK, Spain, the Netherlands, and Austria.
Where To Buy Epoxy Resin In South Africa?
You can purchase epoxy resin in any paint and decor shop near you in any province you find yourself in South Africa.
