Features of polyester resins and their application

Polyester resin is a special material that is used in a wide variety of industries. It has a rather complex composition with a large number of components. The article will discuss the features of this material, its main characteristics and properties.

The composition of the polyester resin is created on the basis of a special polyester (about 70%). It also contains a solvent (up to 30%). It is able to reduce the degree of viscosity of a substance. The resin also contains an initiator, a catalyst acting as an accelerator of reactions, an inhibitor that prevents the substance from entering polymerization on its own.

After mixing all the constituent elements with each other before the start of the curing reaction, the polyester will have a low molecular weight. During polymerization, the particles will begin to form a three-dimensional mesh-type backbone, and their mass will increase significantly. The resulting bonded structure increases the hardness and density of the substance.

Let's analyze the main characteristics and properties of polyester resin:

• low level of thermal conductivity;
• long service life;
• increased level of moisture resistance;
• good electrical insulating properties;
• versatility;
• resistance to the action of various chemical components;
• special resistance to sudden temperature changes.

This substance, in ready-to-use form, is very similar in consistency to liquid honey. And also the composition is capable of accepting various colors from yellow to brown. Despite the presence of color, the substance is transparent. But it is important to remember that polyester resins are hazardous to humans and, if handled incorrectly, can be harmful to health. The danger is represented by the styrene component, which is included in their composition. It is toxic and flammable. The substance should be used with the utmost care.

But in a frozen form, the material can practically do no harm. In addition, modern technologies make it possible to significantly reduce the hazard class of such a resin. In stores, you can find odorless specimens with a minimum styrene content. Shrinkage is characteristic for polyesters. It can be up to 8-10%.

The composition allows you to create a durable, reliable coating. In this case, over time, small cracks and other defects can form on it. Often, a product coated with polyesters is additionally treated with special substances that can significantly increase the strength and wear resistance of the coating. Such materials have a relatively high melting point (220-240 degrees). Their density is about 1.2 g / cm3. Detailed information on polyester resin can be found in GOST 27952-88.

It is worth highlighting the difference between polyester and epoxy compounds. So, the mechanical properties, adhesive ability are better in the second option. And also the epoxy material will provide a longer period of operation, it has the ability to boil. But at the same time, the polyester component is easier to use. When applying epoxy, you need to have certain skills, because during the curing process it quickly loses its viscosity, it will become difficult to work with the material.

Polyester is particularly resistant to UV radiation. In addition, it has a lower price tag. For the manufacture of various products that are subject to wear, as well as for waterproofing and strong adhesion, an epoxy compound will be the best option. It is important to note that it does not contain any carcinogenic elements, it is nonflammable, it is absolutely safe to transport.

Let's take a closer look at the features of certain types of such a resin.

Such substances can have different compositions, their molecular weight can be both low and high. And also they are both solid and liquid. Saturated substances are a synthetic polymer that does not have double or triple bonds in the molecular structure. These compounds are often called alkyd resins.

Such formulations can be straight or branched. The main application of this substance is the production of hard coatings for roll products. It is permissible to take it in the manufacture of printed pigments and rolls with a heat-resistant coating.

This variety is considered the most common. It has double or triple bonds in its molecular structure. Such compositions are obtained by a condensation reaction that occurs between unsaturated acids. Unsaturated substances are most often used in the manufacture of molding materials, toners and laser printers. They boast a high level of heat resistance, high compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength.

The variety is also resistant to chemical corrosion. It has special dielectric properties. When heated, the composition has excellent fluidity. The use of unsaturated products is particularly popular. This can be explained by the fact that these polymers can cure even at room temperature. Moreover, no harmful components will be released into the environment. Ready-made hardeners for saturated and unsaturated substances are available separately in stores. They are sold in containers of various sizes.

Today, in specialized stores, customers will be able to purchase polyester resins from different manufacturing companies.

• "Rempolimer". This company produces Neon S-1 resin. The substance has a low viscosity. The products are manufactured with styrene using special high-quality fillers. These substances are ideal for car tuning, as well as for repair work on boats. Complete hardening of the composition occurs approximately 40-45 minutes after application.

• Reflex. This German manufacturing company produces versatile resins that are suitable for laminating a variety of products. The products have a reduced styrene content. The substance is distinguished by high adhesion to glass, metal materials.

• Norsodyne. Under this brand, a polyester resin is produced, which will not lose its useful properties with constant exposure to light. The brand's products are highly resistant to ultraviolet radiation. These substances are most often used in a variety of finishing works.For such formulations, special hardeners (Butanox) are produced separately. The resin will have good adhesion properties even at medium temperatures.

• Novol. The brand's products are mainly used as an adhesive when working with objects made of rubber. Sometimes it is also used as a reliable sealant. The resin will help seal gaps in glass, metal, wood and plastic surfaces. The company's products can boast of high hardness and durability.

• Eskim. The manufacturer produces resins with a low viscosity level, so they are much easier to apply. Brand products have a slight sensitivity to solvent. If necessary, tinting can be added to the mass. It blends easily with almost all pigments. You can also add talc, gypsum or cement and use the substance when pouring the flooring.

• Kamtex-Polyethers. This manufacturing facility is located in Russia. It specializes in the creation of unsaturated varieties. They are designed to cure as quickly as possible. Such compositions are created on the basis of orthophthalic acid. They boast good mechanical properties, excellent resistance to chemical components and moisture.

Polyester resins are widely used in various fields.

• Construction. The material is widely used in the manufacture of fiberglass, which is equipped with special fiberglass reinforcement. Such products will be lightweight, have a transparent structure and good mechanical properties. These parts are also often used to create a variety of roofing, hinged structures, lighting fixtures. In addition, shower cabins and tables can be made of polyester plastic. It is often used to create beautiful crafts. If necessary, the material can be easily painted in any color.
• Shipbuilding. Most of the parts in shipbuilding are fixed to each other with the help of such resins, because they have excellent resistance to moisture. Even after a long time, the structure will not rot.
• Mechanical engineering. Polyester resin is considered to be an important component of car bodies. And also priming compounds can be produced from it.
• Chemical industry. Polyesters are used in pipes used to transport oil. After all, these substances have excellent resistance to chemical elements.

It should be noted that polyesters are often used to create artificial stone. In this case, the mass must be diluted with additional components: mineral materials, dyes. Sometimes the mixture is purchased for injection molding work when filling into molds. Special compositions are also produced for working with foam plastic, for pouring floors. Special resins are available today. While solidifying, they allow you to make buttons, photo frames, and various decorative items. These types imitate wood carving well.

Elastic polyesters are used in the production of protective helmets, playing balls, fences. They can withstand significant shock loads. Resins resistant to the effects of the atmosphere are used in the manufacture of streetlights, roofs, panels for the exterior of buildings.

Next, we will analyze how to properly work with such material. Most often, along with such resins, there is a detailed instruction for use.

At this stage, you first need to measure the required amount of polyester resin, all proportions can be found in the instructions. You should start work with a small amount. Next, an accelerator is added.You need to dilute the composition gradually. After all the components are slowly mixed thoroughly. When an accelerator is added, a hue change may occur. If at this moment there is also an increase in temperature, then this will mean the beginning of polymerization.

When you need to slow down the hardening process, you should put the container with the substance in a bucket filled with cold water. When the mixture turns into a gelatinous mass, the period of its application ends. This process usually takes an average of 30 to 60 minutes. It is necessary to apply the substance to the products before the end of this time. Then you will need to wait until complete polymerization occurs, the substance dries from several hours to two days.

When working with polyesters, it is necessary to remember important safety rules. So, Wear protective clothing and gloves in advance. The use of special glasses is also recommended. The substance should not come into contact with open areas of the skin. If the polyesters are still on the skin, immediately rinse this area well with clean water and soap, it is best to use a special agent designed for cleaning resins.

In order not to inhale polyester vapors during work, you must also wear a respirator. In the room where the treatment is carried out, there should be no heating devices, sources of open fire. In case of fire, it is categorically impossible to use water. To extinguish the fire, you must use fire extinguishers or just sand.

It is worth remembering the storage rules for polyester compounds. It is best to place them in a well-ventilated area. The optimum temperature is 20 degrees Celsius. Often, polyester compounds are stored in a refrigerator, but must not be allowed to freeze. In this case, the resin can be used throughout the year. During storage, it is strictly forbidden to allow sunlight to enter the container with the substance.