When talking about UV resin vs Epoxy resin, many people may be confused by the two. As both UV resin and epoxy resin are synthetic resins, they can be confusing. So what is the difference between them? In this article, we will share all differences as well as similarities of the two. You will get the answer to UV resin vs epoxy resin after reading.
Overview of UV Resin
Definition of UV resin: UV resin is a single-part resin that cures under ultraviolet (UV) light.
Below are the key characteristics of UV resin:
- 1 Fast curing speed. And this will ensure high production efficiency;
- 2 High utilization rate. So this is a good way for energy saving;
- 3 Low organic volatile compounds (VOCs). This means that it’s environmentally friendly;
- 4 Can be coated with various substrates, such as paper, plastic, leather, metal, glass, ceramics, etc;
Therefore, UV resin is a fast drying, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly resin.
Applications of UV resin
UV curable coatings are not only widely used in various substrates such as paper, plastic, leather, metal, glass, ceramics, but also successfully applied in materials such as optical fibers, printed circuit boards, and electronic component packaging.
Overview of Epoxy Resin
Definition of epoxy resin: Epoxy resin is a kind of high molecular polymer. So it is a two-part resin that consists of a resin and a hardener component. The Molecular formula is (C11H12O3) n, which is the general name of a class of polymers with more than two epoxy groups in the molecule.
- Key Characteristics of epoxy resin.
- Excellent chemical resistance, especially alkali resistance.
- The paint film has strong adhesion, especially to metals.
- It has good heat resistance and electrical insulation.
- The paint film has good color retention.
Applications of epoxy resin
Epoxy resin has excellent physical, mechanical, and electrical insulation properties, adhesive properties with various materials, and flexibility in its use process that other thermosetting plastics do not possess. Therefore, it can be made into coatings, composite materials, casting materials, adhesives, molding materials, and injection molding materials, and is widely used in various fields of the national economy.
Differences: UV Resin Vs Epoxy Resin
As we have learned about the definition, advantages and applications of the two, we can sumarize their differences in four parts, namely Curing process, Durability, Mixing process and Cost.
1. Difference in components:
UV resin is a one-part resin that is instantly ready for use.
Epoxy resin offers 2-part epoxy resin for it consists of a resin and a hardener.
2. Curing
UV resin cures by the use of UV. Epoxy resin cures without other aids.
3. Layers
UV resin requires thin layer. Its maximum layer thinkness is 1 mm, while epocy resin allows its thickness up to 5cm per casting.
4. Small areas VS large areas
UV resin is always suitable to apply on small areas for it needs a UV lamp to cure. And epoxy resin can also be applied on large areas, such as indurstrial floors.
FAQ about UV resin vs Epoxy
1 What are the advantages of using UV resin over epoxy resin?
Scratch resistance: UV resin does a great job in scratch resistance. So it is a perfect choice for crafting applications that require a hard finish.
Yellowing resistance: epoxy resin is more likely to yellow than UV resin. If you don’t want it become yellowish or brownish easily, then choose UV resin.
Stain resistance: UV resin also does well in resistantance to staining.
Easy to use: UV resin does not require mixing of two separate parts so it’s easier to use.
Cures quickly: UV resin reqires less curing time. So it’s ideal for applications that require a hard finish in a short amount of time.
Long shelf life: UV resin has a longer shelf life than epoxy resin.
However, UV resin also has its own drawbacks compared to epoxy resin. If you have compared both prices, you will find UV resin is more expensive than epoxy resin. More importantly, UV resin can only be used on small surfaces, such as jewelry lockets. Lastly, it might not be as strong or durable as epoxy resin.
2 Can UV resin and epoxy resin be used together?
As a matter of fact, many people use UV resin over epoxy resin to give it a shine. The key factor in the whole process is that you need to enure the epoxy resin is fully cured before applying UV resin.
3 What is the history of China’s UV resin development?
China has entered the field of UV curable coatings since the 1980s. The early production of UV curable resin was mainly by companies in United States, Japan, and Germany etc. But currently, many Chinese manufacturers have done so well in terms of quality and efficiency. In recent years, with the increasing awareness of energy conservation and environmental protection among people, the performance of UV curable coatings has been continuously enhanced, the application fields have been continuously expanded, and the production has rapidly increased. Especially as coatings are included in the scope of consumption tax collection, the development of UV resin is expected to further accelerate.
4 Is UV Resin Toxic?
UV resin is considered toxic in its uncured liquid form. However, once it is cured, UV resin becomes solid and is non-toxic anymore and it sometimes can be considered as food safe. Because in uncured liquid form, it might cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. So in production process, it is important to handle UV resin with care. Users should wear protective gloves, eyewear, and a mask when working with it in its liquid form. To better protect plants and animals, do not pour liquid resin down the drain or flush it in the toilet.
5 What are the safety precautions to take when working with UV resin?
Check the safety data sheets (SDS) carefully. And it is highly recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific UV resin usage. When in the production process, do wear protective gloves, eyewear, and a mask etc. to avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Keep away from children and pets.
If experiencing skin irritation, swelling, or if epoxy gets into eyes, discontinue using and seek for medical attention.
6 How do you properly store and handle UV resin and epoxy resin?
Store them in a cool, dry, and dark place to minimize oxidation and UV degradation.
7 How long does UV resin take to cure?
Its curing time depends on the specific combination of resin and curing conditions. Besides, it is also closely related to the thickness of the resin layer and the UV light strength. Generally speaking, the curing time ranges from 3 minutes to 30 minutes.
8 How to decide if UV resin is fully cured?
There are roughly two ways. One is to visually inpect the surface of the resin. If it looks hard and has a matte finish, then it is cured. If the surface is tacky and glossy, it may need more time for curing. The other way is to use a toothpick or fingernail to touch the surface. If it feels hard like hard plastic, that should be fully cured.
9 How to use UV resin for beginners?
10 How to choose UV resin?
When choosing UV resin, there are four factors you should take into consideration:
Curing Time: Different UV resin has different curing time. In this case, you need to choose a UV resin that suits your project needs.
Air Bubbles: The less air bubbles it produces, the better.
Price: Don’t choose products based on prices, but quality.
Finish: Decide what appearance of the finish you want, gloss, matte, or even iridescent etc.
Editor’s Pick: SioResin UV resin
Sioresin offers affordable, high-quality, and versatile UV cure Resins. Key features:
- Fast curing speed
- Excellent Clarity
- High Strength and Durability
- Few restrictions on the application process
- Low VOC Emissions
- Controlled Curing Process
- Wide range of applicable industries
Learn more details about SioResin UV resin, you can simply contact SioResin Team at sales@sioresin.com