Epoxy

Epoxy is a term used to denote both the basic components and the cured end products of epoxy resins, as well as a colloquial name for the epoxide functional group. Epoxy resins, also known as polyepoxides, are a class of reactive prepolymers and polymers which contain epoxide groups.

Chemistry

Epoxy resins may be reacted (cross-linked) either with themselves through catalytic homopolymerisation, or with a wide range of co-reactants including polyfunctional amines, acids (and acid anhydrides), phenols, alcohols and thiols (usually called mercaptans). These co-reactants are often referred to as hardeners or curatives, and the cross-linking reaction is commonly referred to as curing.

Applications

Epoxy has a wide range of applications, including fiber-reinforced plastic materials and general purpose adhesives. Epoxy is used in the manufacture of adhesives, plastics, paints, coatings, primers and sealers, flooring and other products and materials that you see and use every day.

Health and Safety

Epoxy resins are low molecular weight pre-polymers or higher molecular weight polymers which normally contain at least two epoxide groups. The epoxide group is also sometimes referred to as a glycidyl or oxirane group.

See Also

• Polymer
• Resin
• Plastic
• Adhesive

Epoxy Resources
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