When used correctly, epoxy resin can create some beautiful end products. However, if not used properly, it can be a dangerous substance that could result in hazardous consequences for your health.
To make sure you're using epoxy safely and effectively, there are certain things you need to know before using it.
Safety Tips For Epoxy Usage
Read The Instructions On The Product Label
With any chemical product, you should be reading the instructions, user manual, and product label. Do not assume that all you need to do is mix equal parts and you'll be good because that's what a tutorial told you. Different epoxy brands have different working, drying, and curing times. These all affect when additional layers can be added, when an item is ready to be handled
Epoxy is a product that often comes with detailed instructions on the label. You can find most instructions printed on the product or available on the manufacturer's website.
Keep The Epoxy Out Of The Reach Of Children
Another important safety tip is that you should keep epoxy resin out of the reach of children. Although this may seem obvious, some people may not think to make sure their children are not around, especially if they are also not aware that you should be wearing a respirator mask when working with epoxy. You should also keep it away from pets. If a child or pet happens to come into contact with the epoxy resin, it can cause serious harm just as it would to an adult.
Wear Protective Gear When Using Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin has the potential to damage your skin. It can also cause respiratory distress when inhaled. Therefore, when you are working with epoxy resin, it is important to wear protective gear such as gloves, a respirator, and eye protection (you only have 2 eyeballs!!). You also want to make sure your hair is out of your face. I have gotten epoxy in my hair before and it is not fun at all!
Wear Long And Loose-Fitting Clothes
Another safety tip is that you should wear long and loose-fitting clothes when using epoxy resin. This will help to prevent the resin from getting on your skin. Repeated contact with resin can cause major skin irritation problems. Developing an allergy to epoxy is also possible.
Things To Know When Using Epoxy Resin
Know The Advantages And Disadvantages
Before you decide to use epoxy resin for your next project or application, you should know its advantages and disadvantages. While epoxy is very useful, it also has certain limitations. For example, it can’t be used in a high-moisture environment or when there are fluctuations in temperature. Heat will cut back on the time you have to work with your epoxy.
Know The Differences Between Epoxy Resins
To make sure you are using the right epoxy resin for your project or application, it is important to know that there are differences between the different types of epoxy resins that are on the market. Make sure you are getting epoxy that is meant for crafting OR for the material you will be working with.
Check Your Work Area
Before you begin your mixing process, make sure that your work area is level. An unlevel table or floor can cause your measurements to be off resulting in unequal parts. If you are using any molds or a tumbler turner, they could also be unlevel. You can use a tool like a leveler to make sure your project will not turn out lopsided.
You also want to make sure you have everything you need, out and organized. Epoxy is very time and temperature sensitive as touched on previously, so be mindful of this in the summer time. Alternatively, in the winter, you may find that your resin is thicker and a bit more difficult to mix.
How To Use Epoxy Resin Safely?
Work in A well-ventilated room
Make sure that your work area is well-ventilated to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Consider even creating a work area in your garage.
The Dangers Of Working With Epoxy Resin
Skin Contact Can Cause Irritation
The main dangers of working with epoxy resin are skin contact, eye contact, and inhalation. Skin contact can result in irritation. If a large amount of epoxy resin is on your skin, it can cause blisters. If a small amount of epoxy resin is on your skin, it can cause redness, itching, and swelling. Epoxy resin can also cause eye irritation if it gets into your eyes. If it gets into your eyes, you should contact poison contact immediately. Epoxy resin can also cause respiratory distress when inhaled which is why a respirator is so vital.
Frequently Asked Questions About Epoxy Resin
What Is The Difference Between Epoxy And UV Resin?
Epoxy is a 2-part adhesive that requires a 1:1 ratio when mixed. Depending on a few different factors, epoxy has a drying time of about 2-12 hours. UV resin on the other hand can be completed in a couple of minutes. Other than adding in dyes or glitter, the UV resin comes premixed and is ready to work with. To finish, all you will need is a UV light to cure the resin.
Are there any alternatives to epoxy?
There are a few different types of epoxy resins on the market. Each of them with their own instructions and precautions. A few alternatives are:
Crystalac
Crystalac is an epoxy alternative that does not require any mixing and has a 2-hour dry time. A finished tumbler usually has about 4-6 coats. You can not use Crystalac with molds, only in thin layers.
Hyperion
Hyperion is a water-based alternative to epoxy and also has a 2-hour dry time and requires no mixing.