Epoxies
Megapoxy is Australia's leading brand of epoxy. Manufactured in New South Wales, there is a large range of epoxies to suit a variety of industries.
Epoxies cure by way of chemical reaction between two parts (the resin “Part A” and the hardener “Part B”). In this way, epoxies may be different from other products you have used, which cure or harden via moisture in the air, for example. If there is insufficient resin for the amount of hardener (or vice versa), the chemical reaction will not (and will never) occur. This is why epoxies must be mixed in the ratio specified, and mixed very thoroughly so that the two parts come into full contact with each other.
Even if chemicals are not classified as dangerous goods, you should still observe the highest standards of industrial hygiene to protect your health as your highest priority. For example, repeated chemical exposure can develop an allergic reaction over time, including skin sensitivity.
Notes on Using Epoxies in General
Mixing Thoroughly
By mixing thoroughly, we mean achieving full and consistent incorporation of the two parts. This does not mean whisking or agitating it in such a way which creates bubbles. It is best to use a flat stirrer in a flat sided, flat bottomed mixing jug/bucket. Several minutes of close attention is required, but the exact duration of time will vary on the quantities being mixed, and the viscosity of the epoxy system being used. When using liquid epoxies, make sure you decant from the jug/bucket that you mixed in into another jug/bucket and mix it again, to guard against the risk that you have missed scraping a section of the bottom/side of the original receptacle.
When mixing epoxies always add/pour Part B into Part A.
Note: some epoxies, including Megapoxy H and HX do exotherm. This means that during the curing process, (also known as polymerisation) heat is generated. The heat will be noticeable. Take care that no one can inadvertently touch the epoxy during this time. The exact amount of heat generated relates to the amount of surface area for the volume of the epoxy. If the epoxy is spread out in a paint tray, to be rolled on a floor for example, the exotherm will be lower and the curing time will be slower, compared with the same quantity of epoxy being mixed in a relatively narrow mixing jug (which may get extremely hot and will cure faster).
Quantities
Only mix what you can comfortably use within the pot life. If the weather is hot, epoxies will cure faster, and vice versa.
Do not rely on sight to determine to volumes. The lids on products are not measuring lids. In the case of epoxies, “near enough is not good enough”.
Note: It is not the case that by adding more Part B, you will make the final cured product harder. In fact, if you make too large a variation from the specified mixing ratio, the product will never fully cure.
Volume versus Weight
If you are using scales, as opposed to measuring jugs, please ensure you are using the correct ratio. The Megapoxy technical notes are written using volumes (eg. 1:1 for Megapoxy PM or 3:1 for Megapoxy H, for example. If you are using scales, these ratios are different as each part and each type of epoxy has a different specific gravity.
Be Methodical and Keep Work Clean
When the polymerisation process has started, it is irreversible. Only severe heat (over 80°C) or prolonged immersion in a powerful solvent (such as xylene) will break down cured epoxy. Do not get epoxy anywhere that you do not want it permanently.
Storage
Before storing paste consistency epoxies, level off the surface to minimise the surface area exposed to the air (an reduce the effects of oxidation. This is particularly relevant for Part B.
This is some of the range of epoxies from Megapoxy:
Megapoxy H - general purpose liquid epoxy [Clear]
Megapoxy H Rapid Set - general purpose liquid epoxy [Clear]
Megapoxy HX - very low viscosity liquid epoxy [Clear]
Megapoxy 206 - filled high flow grout
Megapoxy 206 Ultra - filled high flow grout
Megapoxy MC - chemical resistant coating & flooring system [Various colors]
Megapoxy CT - tar epoxy coating system
Megapoxy 154 - water based binder & sealer [Clear]
Megapoxy 55 - low viscosity casting & impregnation (electrical)
Megapoxy E - filled system for electrical castings
Megapoxy E/155 - casting for elevated temperatures
Megapoxy 34 - low viscosity for electric motor impregnation
Megapoxy 132 - laminating and flooring system [Clear or Grey]
Megapoxy 132 Flex - laminating and flooring system [Clear or Grey]
Megapoxy HICB - crusher backing
Megapoxy 57 - high performance casting
Megapoxy HT - hydrophilic gel
Megapoxy P1 - concrete repair paste
Megapoxy PM - general purpose adhesive paste [Natural or Grey]
Megapoxy Megabond - general purpose adhesive paste [Natural]
Megapoxy 69 Gel - general purpose adhesive in gel consistency
Megapoxy 69 Liquid - general purpose adhesive in honey consistency
Megapoxy PF Gel - very fast setting general purpose fast-setting adhesive
Megapoxy PF Liquid - very fast setting general purpose fast-setting adhesive
Megapoxy RMF - fast setting general purpose paste
Megapoxy PF Paste - very fast setting general purpose paste
Megapoxy 84- high temperature resistant
Megapoxy 36- high temperature resistant
Megapoxy Pigments - Various colors