How to properly use epoxy glue and its popular brands

Compound

The basis of the composition is epoxy resin. Before gluing it must be mixed with a hardener.

Such an additional component may be polyethylene polyamine, triethylene tetramine or anhydrite. When combined with the resin, the hardener forms a durable polymer substance. The hardener can also be polyamine, carboxylic acids, aminoamides. Hardeners account for 5-15% of the composition. To improve the toughness characteristics, rubber is added to the mixture. To reduce the flammability of the product, organophosphorus modifiers are mixed into it, and laproxy increases the elasticity of the glue.

One-component adhesives contain solvents. On contact with air they evaporate and the mixture hardens. Acetone, xylene, and alcohol can be added to the glue as a solvent. Its content in the composition does not exceed 3%.

• Additionally, synthetic rubber, formaldehyde resin, fiberglass, metal oxides, metal powder, clay or chalk can be mixed into the adhesive mixture.
• To impart plasticity to the mass, its composition can be supplemented with plasticizers that prevent the glue from crumbling after crystallization (for example, phthalic or phosphoric acid). After applying glue with a plasticizer, the seam becomes more elastic and durable. Add. components in epoxy can make up 5-50% of the bulk. While the proportion of fillers that improve performance can reach up to 300%.

Possible components and additives

By adding various components to the adhesive, you can improve its performance.

• Powdered aluminum. Increases thermal conductivity and strength of the seam.
• Asbestos improves resistance to temperatures and makes the seam harder.
• Iron oxide colors the seam red and increases its fire resistance.
• Iron powder increases the coefficient of thermal conductivity and heat resistance.
• Soot turns the glue line black.

• Silicon dioxide makes the composition less viscous, but more durable after drying.
• Titanium dioxide turns the transparent glue white.
• Aluminum oxide increases the strength of the composition and its dielectric characteristics.
• Glass fibers and wood chips help add volume to the mixture. This is necessary when filling large voids with epoxy.

Areas of use

Epoxy composition has a wide range of applications. Work with glue is carried out in the following areas.

• In construction. The glue is used to fill cracks in concrete, cement screed, reinforced concrete beams, and to seal seams in panel houses. Its use provides the structure with additional strength. They connect iron and concrete parts in the construction of bridges. Epoxy is used to seal insulation, sandwich panels, chipboard, to reduce heat loss, and to finish surfaces with tiles or mosaics. Epoxy is included in primers, putties, and tile mixtures.
• In mechanical engineering. You can glue brake pads and attach plastic and metal parts. The composition is used for repair work, for joining metal or plastic parts. Since the glue is waterproof, it can be used to seal holes in the body or fuel tank, or to restore skins.
• In shipbuilding and aircraft construction. When boats are built, the hull is treated with epoxy to make it waterproof. Fiberglass parts and fastenings of technological units are connected. During aircraft assembly, thermal protection elements are attached. The product is used in the production and fastening of solar panels.
• At home. The composition can be used to repair furniture, shoes, plastic, metal and wooden elements, and to repair equipment. Epoxy is used to seal cracks in glass vases, lampshades, and aquariums. Even parts broken into fragments can be returned to their original shape. The product is used to glue chips of porcelain stoneware, seal cracks in ceramic tiles, and attach hooks or holders to walls. Fashionable architectural designers use epoxy to fill countertops and create designer furniture. It is used in handicrafts and in making souvenirs. The composition is used to secure fasteners in the manufacture of jewelry or hair accessories. They are used to glue sequins, beads, half-beads, lace, satin ribbons, leather, polymer clay, etc.

Main features of the substance

Fast-curing epoxy adhesives quickly polymerize after adding a hardener to the base composition. The hardened mass has the following qualities:

• frost resistance (the mass can easily withstand temperatures down to -20⁰С);
• heat resistance (temperature limit at which the glue retains adhesion: up to +250⁰С);
• good ductility and elasticity, which ensures a high level of gluing strength;
• resistance to aggressive environments (acids, alkalis, oils, petroleum products, household chemicals);
• low shrinkage;
• water-repellent properties and high waterproofing performance;
• excellent interaction with almost all materials.

But you should also be aware of some of the disadvantages of such glue. For example, not all surfaces can be glued together - epoxy cannot bond Teflon, silicone and polyethylene . Take into account the accelerated polymerization time, so if there are flaws during gluing, it will be very difficult to remove them later.

Epoxy glue becomes completely safe only after it has completely cured. Before polymerization, it is toxic and harmful to health. This quality requires compliance with personal safety measures when working.

Glue does not work with all materials

Where is it used?

Due to its high technical qualities and versatility, epoxy adhesive is actively used in a variety of sectors of modern industry. Namely:

• in construction, to connect reinforced concrete structures and panels, glue is used to fill cracks and potholes in concrete, and it is used to lay tiles;
• shipbuilding uses an adhesive substance when installing and assembling ship parts made of fiberglass, plastic and metal; the substance is also used to improve the waterproofing qualities of materials;
• aviation (design), used for gluing various parts, manufacturing and installation of batteries, additional fixation for heat protection;
• mechanical engineering uses epoxy adhesive for mounting equipment, fastening brake pads and various parts when assembling machines, for various repairs.

Types of glue

Experts distinguish two large groups of adhesive epoxy composition. This:

1. Liquid. Packaged in tubes. This form of release is convenient and easy to use.
2. Plastic bars. Its consistency is similar to plasticine or dough. Also available in tube packaging. After squeezing out, the mass is slightly moistened with water and softened by hand.

Various modified formulations can also be found on sale. The temperature regime for polymerization of such modifications ranges from +60–120⁰С. Such adhesive substances are used for gluing various materials that are resistant to solvents, petrochemicals and oils.

Particularly strong in the line of epoxy adhesives are hot-curing masses (polymerization occurs at a temperature of +140–300⁰С). These modifications are characterized by high heat resistance and electrical insulation characteristics.

Several brands of epoxy glue are common in household and home use. They are recognizable and familiar to almost everyone:

• universal glue Moment;
• Contact intended for sealing pipes, repairing plumbing;
• Cold welding adhesive is intended for gluing metal products.

Is epoxy glue harmful to health?

When working with epoxy-based adhesive, you should be aware that it poses a health hazard. When working with it, the use of personal protective equipment becomes mandatory: gloves, respirator mask and goggles . If the adhesive mass gets into the stomach, a person runs the risk of serious poisoning, and contact with the skin leads to the development of allergic reactions.

Epoxy glue should not be used when gluing dishes and other items in contact with food.

Properties

• Seam elasticity. Even if the glued surfaces have slight mobility, the seam will not crack or collapse. The elastic seam is not damaged or chipped when drilling or grinding the surface.
• Versatility. Most known materials can be glued.
• Since the adhesive contains solvents, it cannot be used to glue silicone, polyethylene and Teflon bases; there is a high risk of their destruction. The hardened layer of epoxy can be painted or varnished. In addition, it is resistant to solvents, alkalis and oils.

• Frost resistance. The seam does not lose its strength characteristics when the air temperature drops to -30°C, which is why the product can be used for outdoor work.
• Waterproof. After complete hardening, the seam is not susceptible to moisture, water vapor, or condensation.
• Fast drying. The initial coupling takes no more than two minutes. After complete polymerization, it is almost impossible to detach the glued parts.
• Heat resistance. The composition can withstand high temperatures up to +250°C. There are ultra-heat-resistant adhesives that can withstand up to +400°C.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage is versatility in use, but there are other positive aspects

Pros of choosing this glue:

1. There is no shrinkage, that is, the volume does not change, since a special seam is formed during the gluing process.
2. Cracks do not form on the bonded surface, since the polymer compounds included in the composition are highly elastic.
3. It has good adhesive properties to all types of glued materials.
4. Resistance to solvents, including aggressive ones, alkaline and oil compounds.
5. Quite durable and elastic when temperatures increase to +350 degrees.
6. The finished surface can be painted with paint or varnish.
7. It has the property of not conducting electric currents and can be used as a dielectric.
8. Polymerization itself occurs in all layers of the bonded surface.
9. By adding various fillers, you get an adhesive mixture for universal use.
10. Resistance of the adhesive composition to moisture.
11. It is not subject to destruction when exposed to ultraviolet radiation and open air.
12. Can be used as a component of a sliding system.

Disadvantages of the material:

• Before using the two-component type, the compositions must be mixed.
• Strict adherence to safety precautions during work.
• Compliance with the proportions of dilution of the adhesive.
• To complete the work quickly in order to have time before the glue hardens, it is recommended to open the packaging before direct use.

Kinds

There are 3 basic parameters by which epoxy adhesives are classified:

• compound;
• final consistency;
• hardening method.

By composition

1. One-component epoxy adhesive. This is a transparent mixture consisting of liquid resin or resin-containing solvent. The glue is packaged in small tubes and does not require preparation before use. The one-component product glues small parts well and is used to seal joints in pipes or cracks and gaps. Most compositions harden on their own. But some brands may only set after high heat.
2. Two-component epoxy adhesive. This is the most common form of release. It consists of two components, each of which is packaged in a separate tube. The first tube contains the resin, the second contains the hardener. The second component may have a liquid or powdery consistency. Before use, the resin is mixed with a hardener. The components must be poured into one container and mixed with a spatula. The 2-component composition is applied to the surface within 1-2 minutes after preparation, since after this time it hardens and loses its properties.

Two-component composition in a syringe

By consistency

• Liquid. Such epoxy adhesives need to be squeezed out of the tube. Can be used sparingly as it can be applied to spots. Allows you to glue small parts. Liquid adhesives are often available in syringes. This is a ready-to-use composition.

• Pasty. The product is in the form of a plastic mass with a texture similar to ordinary plasticine. To work, you need to cut off a sufficient amount of paste, knead it and lightly moisten it with water. The finished composition should have a thick consistency. After preparation, it is applied to the surface to be glued.

Epoxy plasticine

By curing method

• Mixtures based on liquefied resin, aliphtic polyamide and plasticizers set quickly, but their complete hardening at t=+20°C occurs in 1-3 days. They take a long time to structure. To increase the strength of the seam, after application it must be thermally treated. Seams not treated with high temperatures are resistant to aggressive acid-base environments. But without heat treatment, the seam will be poorly resistant to prolonged exposure to moisture. This must be taken into account when gluing wooden and other hydrophilic substrates.
• Modifications of adhesive compositions can harden at temperatures from +60 to +120°C. They are used to glue bases, the material of which is characterized by impact strength and increased resistance to the influence of solvents such as oil or gasoline.
• Ultra-strong high-temperature adhesives, for the hardening of which it is necessary to expose the seam to temperatures ranging from +140 to +300°C. Connections of this type have electrical insulating and heat-resistant characteristics.

Can I use epoxy for painting?

Epoxy is more often used in cases where certain damaged shapes and areas need to be created with a certain strength and rigidity (repairs). Painting with epoxy resin is based on the same criteria of a resinous substance that resonated with finishing and repair work.

After polymerization, epoxy resins harden, maintaining the smoothness and strength of the surface, and the desired shape. And the dyes included in the substance do not lose their brightness for a long time.

Epoxy resin is actively used in creativity

Not every epoxy is used to create amazing and unusual designs. The creative workshop actively uses a two-component resin base to work in the Resin-Art style. After adding a special hardener to the substance, the paste thickens and prevents the created painting from “spreading.” When creating unique designs with epoxy resin, craftsmen additionally use the following components:

• various pigment dyes of powder type;
• phosphor paints (they give the future painting the ability to glow in the dark);
• various glitters (spangles, rhinestones), Swarovski crystals, beads, shells, small stones and other decorative elements.

Please note that the hardener required during operation may turn yellow after some time. It will no longer be possible to restore the original color. Therefore, wisely select both the catalyst itself and the color palette for future masterpieces. It is better to use acrylic, oil or spray paints.

Specifications

Consumption

The consumption of epoxy-based adhesive will depend on the thickness of the applied layer.

The average consumption per 1 m2 with a layer of 1 mm is 1.1 kg.

If porous substrates such as concrete, wood or wooden slabs are pasted over, the consumption increases. To fill voids with a volume of 1 cm cubic. you need to use 1.1 g of the mixture.

How long does it take to dry?

Drying time depends on the ambient temperature and the ratio of the main components in the composition. To speed up the setting of the product, you need to add more hardener to it. To increase the speed of hardening, the adhesive joint can be heated after setting. If you increase the heating temperature, the composition hardens faster.

Epoxy glue dries differently. It all depends on its type.

1. Cold welding hardens in 5-20 minutes.
2. Liquid mixtures become thick after an hour, set after 2 hours, and completely polymerize within a day.

If the glue does not harden (or takes a very long time to dry), it is possible that it is expired, or the proportions when preparing the mixture were not met.

You should not carry out gluing at sub-zero temperatures, since the adhesive seam does not normally crystallize. To speed up hardening, it is better to carry out work at temperatures from +10 to +30°C.

Temperature

Most brands, after hardening, can withstand heating temperatures up to +150...+180°C, without reducing the strength characteristics of the seam.

Some adhesives are characterized by increased heat resistance, so they can withstand +250°C. There is a type of glue that has increased heat resistance; it holds its shape when exposed to a temperature of +400°C for a short time.

For normal glue hardening, it is enough that the temperature is from +20 to +23°C. Some brands can harden at +10...+15°C.

If the composition needs to be made more liquid, the resin must be heated in a water bath, with a melting point of 50-60°C. After melting, the epoxy is easily drawn up with a syringe and applied pointwise to the prepared surfaces.

On average, the operating temperature is +10...+30°C, but depending on the brand it may differ.

The difference between epoxy glue and resin

Epoxy resin in its composition is a polymer combined with a hardener, and the adhesive based on it is a complex compound that includes modifiers and fillers.

You can distinguish one from the other by certain characteristics.

1. Hardening speed. The manufacturer indicates on the glue packaging the exact time for its hardening, which cannot be accelerated or slowed down. The rate of polymerization of the resin can be influenced by external influence.
2. Color. The resin is initially transparent. Over time, the shade changes only slightly. The glue is also colorless at first, but over time it turns yellow.
3. Scope of application. Resin is added in the manufacture of plastic, putty, primers, paints, and is also used for filling. Glue is used only for repair and construction work.

How to dilute epoxy

Before understanding how to use glue, you need to understand the correct dilution of the two-component type. It is necessary to dilute the main part with the hardener after the preparatory stage, so that it does not have time to dry out ahead of time. For the same reason, you need to mix the quantity in a volume sufficient for application until it hardens, which is prescribed as standard on the packaging.

The mixing proportion may be different for different brands, and the manufacturer indicates it on the glue label; always follow these recommendations. If the resin is too viscous, it will need to be preheated to improve mixing ability. It is acceptable to use a water bath or place the container on a heating device.

Afterwards, you can dilute the elements in a selected clean container, accurately measuring the amount of each component. For small volumes, a syringe is suitable for this purpose.

Add the elements carefully, slowly, and choose a wooden stick for stirring.

It is necessary to dilute the main part with the hardener after the preparatory stage, so that it does not have time to dry out ahead of time.

Stamps

Epoxy adhesives from Moment

EDP

Two-component Poxipol

Types of glue

There are several forms of epoxy glue. The products differ not only in composition, but also in consistency.

The compositions can be either a transparent, viscous, heat-resistant liquid, or a paste or powder. You can find hard bars.

Two-component epoxy adhesive is a package of two tubes: the first contains resin with filler, and the second contains a hardener. To prepare an adhesive composition with

The contents of both tubes must be mixed to start the polymerization process. How to dilute epoxy glue is detailed in the attached instructions. Thus, you need to prepare the required amount of product. The resulting mass hardens very quickly, so it must be used immediately.

There are epoxy adhesives from different manufacturers.

Paste glue can also be purchased as separate ingredients, which are suggested to be diluted immediately before use. Some adhesives must be exposed to high temperatures to achieve proper curing. This product is characterized by increased connection strength.

Film adhesive is a transparent material with adhesive properties. Such products use a modified resin. Synthetic fabrics are used to reinforce the film. When reviewing this product, in most cases its special strength and resistance to thermal and oxidative effects are indicated.

Instructions for use

To glue materials, you need to first prepare them, then dilute the glue and only then start gluing.

First, dirt, dust, grease and oil stains must be removed from the surface to be pasted, and then completely degreased. Next, the surface is dried, although there are brands of epoxy adhesives that can paste over wet substrates. To increase the adhesive properties of the surface, it can be wiped with sandpaper after drying.

How to properly dilute

How to use epoxy glue and the exact proportions for its preparation are indicated in the instructions. The usual ratio of resin to hardener is 10 to 1. Sometimes it is necessary to prepare in a ratio of 5:1.

At home, it is better to prepare the glue in a separate container, which will then not come into contact with food. A disposable container is suitable for mixing.

1. First, the resin is squeezed out of the tube.
2. Then the hardener is added.

Mix the ingredients carefully and slowly to prevent a strong thermal reaction in the container. Mixing can be done with a wooden stick or spatula.

If the resin is too thick, it will be difficult to dilute with the hardener. In this case, the component must be dissolved in a water bath at a temperature of up to 50-60°C. To easily dilute the mixture to a uniform consistency, you can place the tube of resin in a pan of hot water before mixing. At the same time, do not allow boiling water to come into contact with the composition, so as not to deteriorate its characteristics.

Since the prepared mixture hardens quickly, you need to mix at a time only the amount that you have time to use before it initially dries.

How to glue

After preparing the surfaces, they need to be lubricated with the prepared glue and pressed tightly against each other. You need to hold them for about 10 minutes. Afterwards, leave until completely hardened (about a day).

For additional fixation, a rope, a vice, or weights can be used.

If small parts are connected, the composition can be applied pointwise with a syringe. The glue is applied to large areas with a brush.

If epoxy is used as a fill, the mold is prepared. Its bottom and sides are treated with fats. Afterwards, the mold is filled with glue and remains in it until completely hardened.

To speed up polymerization, three hours after pouring the glue into the mold, it is sent to the oven for heating. Without additional heating, the glue in the mold hardens no earlier than after a week. If a mold with a thickness of more than 2 mm is poured, then everything is done in stages. After each stage, you need to wait until the previous layer polymerizes.

How to dilute it to a liquid state

A solvent is used to dilute it to a liquid state.

Acetone, xylene, alcohols, and other organic compounds can dissolve epoxy glue.

The amount of thinner should not exceed 3-5% of the dry volume of the resin, as this may negatively affect the adhesive qualities of the composition.

You can dissolve the epoxy in a water bath, heating it to a temperature of 50-60°C.

How to mix resin and hardener?

All two-component epoxy resin adhesives must be mixed before gluing. If the glue is semi-liquid or gel-like, and the hardener is a liquid, then mixing is done in a disposable plastic container or silicone mold. The compositions, which look like a paste in tubes, are squeezed onto flat glass or plastic and mixed with a spatula until smooth. Adhesives in the form of a thick paste or mastic are kneaded with your hands, first wearing gloves.

Necessary tools and equipment

To measure and prepare epoxy glue, you will need the following equipment:

• several disposable plastic containers (plastic cups will do);
• measuring instruments (measuring cup or test tube, several plastic disposable syringes without a needle, jewelry scales);
• plastic container for mixing (must be of sufficient volume, wide, not narrow, to better evacuate the heat generated during polymerization and prevent splashing of the boiled material);
• mixing tool (wooden stick, spatula);
• protective equipment (gloves, goggles, mask).

Mixing process

The glue is placed first in the mixing container. Its amount must be measured in advance using a disposable graduated syringe, measuring cups or scales. Then the hardener is poured in. This should be done gradually, in small portions, after each portion mixing the glue with a wooden stick or spatula. If you pour in all the hardener at once, the solution may boil violently, and some of it will splash out on the table or on the hands of the worker. After pouring in the last portion of the hardening liquid, the glue is thoroughly stirred until smooth.

From this point on, the composition begins to gradually thicken and can be used. Epoxy resin and especially the hardener contain volatile components that evaporate during the mixing and gluing process, so you need to protect yourself with a mask and gloves while working.

Security measures

During work, the room must be thoroughly ventilated. It is better to do gluing in the fresh air. These precautions are necessary because the epoxy mixture produces toxic fumes.

1. You need to glue in thick clothing, with a respirator or protective mask on your face.
2. Hands are protected with gloves.
3. If the mixture gets on exposed skin, it should be washed off immediately with soap and water.
4. The container in which the composition is mixed is thrown away after use. Food and drinking water cannot be stored in it, since even a small dose of glue entering the body can cause poisoning.

Precautionary measures

When working with adhesive, it is important to follow safety rules. The substance creates toxic fumes, so use a respiratory protection product that has a carbon filter. Joints should be glued with epoxy glue in an open area or in a ventilated (well ventilated) room.

Before starting to knead the composition, put on rubber gloves. People suffering from allergies should pay special attention to skin protection products. It is prohibited to use tableware for mixing glue components.

How to wash

If the glue gets on a surface that is not to be glued and has not yet had time to harden, it can be cleaned with a soap solution. Stubborn residues can be removed with acetone. The hardened mixture can be removed with liquid vegetable oils, under the influence of which it softens and peels off.

• Freezing. Epoxy can withstand low temperatures down to -20°C, so freezing it in a home freezer is ineffective. It must be removed with an aerosol refrigerant. If you spray it on the adhesive surface, it will become brittle. Afterwards, you need to remove the glue with a spatula or a blunt knife. Removal must be done carefully to avoid injury from glue fragments.
• Heat. The glue softens when heated with a household hair dryer or iron. Solid heat-resistant layers must be heated with a hairdryer with heated air flow at the maximum level for several minutes. The softened areas are scraped off with a spatula. Heat until all excess residue is removed. If epoxy drips onto the fabric, it needs to be heated with an iron, placing a cotton rag on the front side of the material.
• Scraping. Hard, scratch-resistant surfaces can be cleaned of the adhesive mixture mechanically. Any metal tool can be used for this.
• Exposure to chemical solvents. This method cleans wear-resistant materials that are not exposed to aggressive environments. Acetone, alcohol, butyl acetate, aniline, and toluene can be used as a diluent. You need to moisten the contaminated area with any of these products, wait until the glue softens and remove its remains mechanically. You can remove glue from mirror surfaces with acetic acid.

Products for metal

In this section we will look at how you can glue metal elements using glue. The steps are the same as when working with other materials: the glue is mixed with the components and applied to a dry and clean surface.

An example of glue is “Moment Super Epoxy Metal”. Actively comes into contact with alloys of steel, copper, aluminum, etc.

The seams formed are heat-resistant (stable at temperatures up to +250C), therefore they have proven themselves well in conditions of elevated temperatures.

Storage

Epoxy should be stored in its original packaging at air temperature from +20 to +25°C. The product must be placed in a vertical position in a dry place.

The tube with the mixture should not be placed in direct sunlight; it should also be stored away from children and away from food.

If the container is damaged, the glue will lose its properties.

Shelf life depends on the manufacturer. May last from 1 to 3 years. After this period has expired, the quality of the glue may deteriorate slightly. The fresher the components of the adhesive mixture, the better the polymerization process of the composition, the faster the glue and the surface adhere, and a stronger seam is obtained. If there is still some of them left in the original packaging after mixing the components, you need to store the tubes with resin and hardener in the refrigerator. You must first remove as much air as possible from the tubes. The prepared mixture cannot be stored for long periods of time. After use, any remaining glue must be disposed of.

Step-by-step instructions: how to glue surfaces

The work takes place in 3 stages:

1. Cleaning, degreasing, drying the surface;
2. Preparation of adhesive composition;
3. Direct connection of parts.

It should be remembered: the preparation of parts for gluing must be done in advance. Since the epoxy hardens quickly (1-2 minutes), there will be practically no time left for cleaning!

In everyday life, it is best to use sandpaper for surface treatment. For example, acetone, gasoline or kerosene are suitable for degreasing the surface (depending on the type of material being glued).

In production, sand and ultrasound are used to process parts. Pickling and degreasing are also carried out in special acid containers.

Preparing the glue is the most difficult process. Since you need to strictly adhere to the instructions, observe the proportions. To prepare the adhesive mixture, you need to take 3 simple steps:

1. Squeeze the epoxy resin into a container of suitable depth;
2. Add hardener (standard proportions 1:10, overdose is allowed - 1:5);
3. Knead (preferably by hand).

The work process itself occurs in the following sequence:

1. Apply the resulting mixture to one of the parts;
2. Squeeze tightly;
3. Fix for up to 10 minutes.

After a few hours (or days), the required strength is achieved, and the product is ready for use.