Epoxy varnish: types and applications

Epoxy varnish is a solution of epoxy, most often Diane resins based on organic solvents.

Different types of varnishes are used for the manufacture of putties, used for finishing metal and polymer substrates.

Before use, a hardener is added to the varnish, depending on the type of resin. Thus, a two-component composition with excellent technical characteristics is obtained.... In addition to the characteristic gloss, the substance provides increased anti-corrosion and mechanical strength. It is a safe material that does not contain toxic compounds, but solvents that are also used during work contain toxic substances.

Among the disadvantages of varnish, one can single out insufficient plasticity, due to its structure and its constituent components. In addition, proper mixing is necessary to obtain the optimum coating quality.

Epoxy varnishes are mainly used for wood surfaces: parquet and plank floors, window frames, doors, as well as for finishing and protecting wooden furniture. There are special formulations, for example, "Elakor-ED", which are intended for filling 3D-floor with flocks (chips, glitters, glitters).

The quality of the resulting film directly depends on the type of resin used. "ED-20" is considered the most durable, and therefore the material is more expensive than its counterparts based on "ED-16".

This type of product is a resin solution for fluoroplastic-epoxy varnishes, hardener and certain fluoropolymer compounds of the "F-32ln" type. A feature of this group of materials is:

• low coefficient of friction;
• high dielectric constant;
• frost resistance;
• resistance to thermal influences;

• good indicators of elasticity;
• strength in conditions of intense ultraviolet radiation;
• increased corrosion resistance;
• high adhesion to glass, plastic, metal, rubber, wood.

Cold and hot curing fluoroplastic varnishes comply with the existing safety standards and GOST standards. When choosing, you should also pay attention to the accompanying documentation and quality certificates.

Due to their heat resistance and electrical insulating properties, these materials:

• used to create composite varnishes, enamels;
• in combination with other resins are used in optics, electronics;
• protect exhaust fans, gas ducts, ceramic filters in water purification equipment and other devices from corrosion, including in industrial production.

The technology of their application to the surface can be different: manually with a brush, using air and airless spraying, dipping.

Epoxy varnish coatings, made on a transparent base and a transparent hardener, are designed to give gloss to any surfaces, as well as to protect them from aggressive chemical attack. They are used in the installation of self-leveling floors with decorative elements, as they are able to hide small cracks and scratches.

Main positive qualities:

• layer transparency up to 2 mm;
• lack of smell;
• resistance to sunlight;

• immunity to chemical and mechanical stress;
• sealing and dedusting of any base;
• the possibility of using detergents when cleaning.

Clear epoxy coatings are essential for the treatment of refrigeration equipment, surfaces in manufacturing halls and warehouses, garages, parking lots and other residential and public places.

An example of such a material is lightfast, UV-resistant "Varnish-2K"which helps to form a completely transparent and durable base.

"Elakor-ED" is an epoxy-polyurethane-based material, the main purpose of which is the arrangement of floors, although in practice the composition is also used to form a high-strength film on other surfaces.

The products are easy to use, they allow you to make a glossy protective coating in just a day. However, it is important to know how to apply the product correctly.

First, preparatory work is carried out:

• it is necessary to clean the base from dust, small debris and dirt;
• the tree should be primed and sanded;
• when applied to concrete, it is first putty and leveled;

• when applied to metal, rust should be removed from it;
• Before processing, polymer products undergo any abrasive and degrease.

A hardener is added to the varnish, which must be mixed within 10 minutes.

After the end of the chemical reaction (bubble formation), application can begin.

Since epoxy-polyurethane compounds harden within an hour, with a large area to be treated, it is better to prepare the solution in parts. Application is carried out at a temperature not lower than +5 and not higher than +30 degrees with a roller, brush or a special pneumatic device. The use of a brush requires regular cleaning with a solvent. Apply the varnish cross on the cross with a roller.

When working, it is recommended to erect at least three layers of varnish, which will ensure maximum density and strength. For one square meter, you need to use at least 120 grams of solution. Any deviations up or down will lead to an unsatisfactory result or wrinkling of the composition on the surface.

Despite the absence of odor, it is advisable to carry out all work with epoxy mixtures in a special suit and a gas mask, since a respirator is not able to protect eyes and lungs from toxic fumes. This is especially true of EP series varnishes, as they contain toxic solvents.

Epoxy varnishes not only make the coating beautiful, but also increase its service life due to its high resistance to various external influences.

How to make a polymer epoxy covering the concrete floor in the garage of a country house, see below.