Manatee Museum Renovations include Epoxy Resin Flooring…
We, here in Florida, feel very fortunate to be able to enjoy the abundance of flora and fauna that the region has to offer. Our many fresh waterways, and of course proximity to the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Atlantic Ocean to the east; offer a great variety of aquatic life. One species n particular seems to attract a lot of attention from both residents and tourists alike – the manatee…
Manatees found in the US, are aquatic herbivores that prefer the warmer temperatures of marshy shallows along the coasts of the Gulf of Mexico and southern Atlantic. Their slow metabolic rate means that prolonged exposure to water temperatures below 68 degrees F will be detrimental to their existence. While able to move freely between salt and fresh water, they tend to congregate in shallows near warm spring-fed rivers.
Aside from its coating, sealing and moisture-proofing qualities; epoxy resin is completely safe and inert once cured – making it a perfect solution for aquatic areas. Waterproof or Marine-grade epoxy resin is widely used both in and around aquatic tanks by aquarium professionals as well as home hobbyists. Manatee rescue and rehabilitation habitats use epoxy resin in a variety of ways.
Epoxy Resin - Versatile & Durable
A recent article speaks to the versatility and durability of epoxy resin for maritime application including for aquariums. One of our local museums, The Bishop Museum, is performing some renovations to their Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat; a portion of which includes applying new epoxy coating to the flooring in a “behind-the-scenes care area.” (For more on this story in the Herald-Tribune, click HERE).
Aside from aquarium professionals, home hobby enthusiasts use epoxy resin in myriad ways both for fish tank construction, as well as in the creation of decorative and functional aquatic displays. Waterproof epoxies are designed to be, and widely used as, coatings and sealants in myriad industries and applications due to their superior bonding to virtually any substrate, and high-performance coating and sealing properties.
Aquarium-safe materials such as epoxy resin, rigid foam and urethane are used extensively as indoor, outdoor and underwater architectural elements – both for structural and aesthetic application. And while the functionality and creativity provided by these materials is important; let us not forget that the primary criterion is the safety of the animals.
FAQs
MAX ACR A/B is an epoxy-based resin system formulated as an aquarium-safe coating, casting, fiberglassing and bonding resin. It cures to a transparent clear and durable chemical resistant polymer that demonstrates excellent stability in both fresh and saltwater immersion.
Is epoxy resin water safe? ›
Epoxy resins, including coatings and epoxy lining materials, have been rigorously tested and approved for use on potable water lines and drain lines.
What is marine grade epoxy? ›
Bonding & Curing - like other epoxy resins, marine epoxy cures to a high-performance plastic solid that bonds to wood, metals, fiberglass and composite materials that features high strength, as well as superior impact, corrosion and water/moisture resistance; however, boat epoxy resin is not designed for clear-coating ...
Is epoxy harmful to fish? ›
Aside from its coating, sealing and moisture-proofing qualities; epoxy resin is completely safe and inert once cured – making it a perfect solution for aquatic areas. Waterproof or Marine-grade epoxy resin is widely used both in and around aquatic tanks by aquarium professionals as well as home hobbyists.
What epoxy can be applied underwater? ›
Marine Epoxy is a permanent, waterproof adhesive. The 2-part formula is ideal for projects requiring high bonding strength on surfaces exposed to water immersion. The adhesive can be applied and will cure underwater. It can be used on glass, metal, wood and other common materials.
Is Gorilla epoxy safe for aquariums? ›
Gorilla glue that is specifically designed for use with aquariums is safe for use in tanks. This type of glue will not release any harmful fumes, and it is also water-resistant.
Does epoxy resin leach into water? ›
By contrast, epoxy linings and coatings do not release harmful toxins, chemicals or minerals into your drinking water. Instead, the epoxy forms a watertight barrier between the material of your pipes and the water you drink.
What happens if water gets in epoxy resin? ›
Abstract. The effects of water on uncured epoxies and epoxy composites are studied. Experiments show that water causes an increase in the cure rate of epoxy materials at low degrees of cure and a decrease in cure rate and total cure at high degrees of cure.
What is the major disadvantages of epoxy resin? ›
The main disadvantage of epoxy resins are their relatively high cost, long curing time, and handling difficulties.
Is JB Weld epoxy safe for aquariums? ›
JB waterweld is reef safe and will cure against plastic pretty well - Anything you can do with pvc cement out of the water will be better though.
They are being used in an increasing number of composite pipes and tanks as well as in coatings for traditional steel and concrete products. Thanks to their durability, processing flexibility, resistance to chlorine, microbes and other threats, epoxy resins represent a viable alternative for delivering drinking water.
Is 2 part epoxy aquarium safe? ›
Epoxy is reef safe, so you can use it underwater in a fully established saltwater aquarium.
What is the safest epoxy resin to use? ›
ArtResin is the most popular brand of clear epoxy resin used by resin artists worldwide. ArtResin is ASTM certified (D-4236) non-toxic, non-hazardous, non-flammable, as there are no VOCs / fumes produced. ArtResin has only a low odour and is applicator friendly.
