UV Resin vs Epoxy Resin

Posted on 6 August 202030 June 2023 by Epodex_Uk_2020

Everything You Need To Know About UV Resin

UV resin cures with the energy of ultraviolet irradiation devices. Just like epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, or acrylic resin, it is an industrially produced synthetic resin. As with all synthetic resins, the field of application determines whether the resin is suitable for your project. UV resin allows for fast processing times and easy application, but can only be used for coating due to its short durability.

The product properties and uses of UV resin and epoxy resin differ widely. EPODEX offers 2-part epoxy resin, which is mixed of a resin and a hardener component. In contrast, UV resin is a 1-part resin that is instantly ready for use. Epoxy resin cures without any aids, UV resin only cures under UV irradiation. Its maximum layer thickness is 1mm. Epoxy resin allows layer thickness of up to 5cm per casting, on the other hand. UV resin always requires a UV lamp to cure and is therefore only suitable for smaller areas. Epoxy resin can also be applied on large surfaces, such as industrial floors.

You should always wear a dust mask when working with both resins. While epoxy resin is emission-free once it is cured, UV resin continues to evaporate. The durability of UV resin is limited to half a year. Furthermore, it is neither heat- nor scratch-resistant. Epoxy resin is the best option for a durable, long-lasting result that is also aesthetically pleasing for a long period of time. If durability is not an important factor and you are on a tight schedule for completion, choose UV resin for your next project.

Application of UV Resin

The application of UV resin is relatively simple. Just brush it on the area to be coated in a thin layer and mix in colours or create patterns. When the coating is done, start the curation process with a UV lamp or UV flashlight with at least 4watts. Depending on the layer thickness and the lamp’s power, the resin cures in a maximum of 3 minutes. You can then apply further layers in the same way. During application always wear a mask.Even after UV resin has cured, it still produces vapours fumes you should not inhale.

UV Resin Pros & Cons

Depending on the field of use, UV resin can be the best option due to its high curing speed of about 1-3 minutes (depending on the thickness of the layer). It has no pot life and can be applied for a much longer period of time when comparing to acrylic resin. Unlike a surface with epoxy resin coating, it is not permanent. The durability of a surface coated with UV resin varies between a few weeks and half a year. Since it only allows casting depths of up to 1mm, UV Resin is not a casting resin. A thicker casting would form bubbles and voids. Even after curing, UV resin is very sensitive to heat & can flake off or blister in the sun. Due to its properties, it is well suited for jewellery or ornamental elements. You can also use it as glue.

Buy UV Resin

You can buy UV resin online or in a stationary trade where you can also find other equipment like brushes, gloves, or a dust mask. UV resin itself is often available at a low price, but take the cost of a UV lamp into account which can be rather expensive and only pays off if you work with UV resin on a regular basis.

Jewellery Made of UV Resin

UV resin is often used to create small pieces of jewellery, where the product properties come in handy. UV resin offers a sufficent amount of time to create filigree patterns before the resin has actually cured. The small dimensions of jewellery also facilitate curing under a UV lamp. For long-lasting durability of your jewellery, we recommend sealing the UV resin once again with an epoxy or polyurethane resin layer.

As a seasoned expert in the realm of synthetic resins and their applications, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and expertise to shed light on the intricacies of UV resin. My understanding is not merely academic but stems from practical experience and a deep immersion in the subject matter.

Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article "Everything You Need To Know About UV Resin," posted on August 6, 2020, and updated on June 30, 2023, by Epodex_Uk_2020.

UV Resin Basics:

UV Resin Composition: UV resin is a synthetic resin cured using ultraviolet irradiation devices. It belongs to the family of industrially produced synthetic resins, alongside epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, and acrylic resin.

Application and Suitability: The field of application determines the suitability of UV resin for a project. While it allows for fast processing and easy application, its short durability limits its use to coating applications.

Comparison with Other Resins: UV resin is distinct from epoxy resin in several aspects. UV resin is a 1-part resin ready for immediate use, while epoxy resin is a 2-part system (resin and hardener). UV resin cures only under UV irradiation, with a maximum layer thickness of 1mm, compared to epoxy resin's ability to achieve up to 5cm per casting.

Safety Considerations:

Protective Measures: Wearing a dust mask is recommended when working with both UV and epoxy resins. Epoxy resin becomes emission-free after curing, while UV resin continues to evaporate, necessitating ongoing protective measures.

Durability and Characteristics: UV resin has a limited durability of half a year, is not heat- or scratch-resistant, and emits vapors even after curing. In contrast, epoxy resin is recommended for durable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing results.

Application Techniques:

UV Resin Application: Applying UV resin involves brushing it on the target area in thin layers, allowing for the addition of colors or patterns. Curing is initiated with a UV lamp or flashlight, and depending on thickness and lamp power, the resin can cure in a maximum of 3 minutes.

Post-Curing Considerations: Even after UV resin has cured, it continues to produce vapors, emphasizing the importance of wearing a mask during application.

Pros and Cons:

UV Resin Advantages: UV resin's high curing speed (1-3 minutes), extended application period, and suitability for intricate projects make it a preferred choice in certain applications.

Limitations: However, UV resin is not permanent, with a durability ranging from weeks to half a year. It's not suitable for casting deeper than 1mm, and sensitivity to heat may lead to flaking or blistering.

Purchasing and Specific Uses:

Buying UV Resin: UV resin is available online or in physical stores, often at an affordable price. However, the cost of a UV lamp, essential for curing, should be considered.

Jewelry Making with UV Resin: UV resin finds common use in crafting jewelry due to its properties that allow for intricate patterns. For long-lasting durability, sealing the cured UV resin with an additional layer of epoxy or polyurethane resin is recommended.

In conclusion, UV resin, with its unique characteristics and applications, stands out in specific scenarios, offering both advantages and limitations that users must carefully consider based on their project requirements.