How are epoxies made

Epoxy resins are thermosetting polymers with unique mechanical and resistance properties. They are the result of a chemical reaction called ‘curing’, which involves epoxides and other chemicals more commonly known as ‘hardeners’ or curing agents. A number of substances can be used as hardeners, including polyamines, aminoamides or phenolic compounds.

The curing process consists of an exothermic reaction achieved by either having the epoxy resins to react with themselves (catalytic homo-polymerisation) or through cross-linking with a hardener. The result of the curing process will create epoxy thermoset polymers, with unique adhesion, durability, resistance and versatility.

Depending on the desired outcome, different types of epoxy resins can be blended. It is also possible to mix in additives, plasticisers or fillers to modulate the final properties for specific uses.

DID YOU KNOW?

Currently there are more than 50 different substances known as epoxy resins. On top of that, there are hundreds of hardeners to modify epoxy polymer properties in order to satisfy the most varied requirements. Certain basic performance properties are always present in epoxies.