1. AN FRP QUESTION FROM SUBSCRIBERS.

Subscriber’s question by Joshua Brown:
-“Laminating wise what is the difference between Epoxy Vs Polyester and Vinyl ester?””

Composite 101, 202 and Advance answer:

Let start with polyester and vinyl ester. They are, basically, similar when working with them. Vinyl ester is a better quality resin than polyester. Its corrosion resistant and have overall a better mechanical quality. For example if you want to make a flower pot you want to use polyester, while if you want to make a carbon fender then you want to use vinyl ester.

Epoxy resin is a high quality product. Often the best all around resin available. Though keep in mind that some vinyl ester compares in quality, to some epoxies.

You can use almost all the same materials with epoxies that you would use with polyester and vinyl ester resins. There’s few exceptions, Mat for example you have to makes sure that the mat you buy is epoxy usable, otherwise the binder in the mat fibers won’t melt and render the mat unusable. Also some resin modifiers shouldn’t be mixed with epoxy “Air dry” (paraffin wax) for example, it’s diluted with styrene and shouldn’t be mix with the epoxy. You have to check with the resin manufacturer for more details.

Styrene based resin like polyester and vinyl ester are easier to work with in a higher volume production.

Epoxy has some production high and low points. Has a high note the epoxy is less toxic than the styrene based resins. If you work in a small, poorly ventilated shop a epoxy resin is a good choice. But, if you have to work with large batches, epoxy being more prone to mass effect and heat buildup it makes it difficult to work with.

Need more information about resins check if we cover the topic you are looking for in our guide: Guide.Fiberglasstechnique.com

2. COMPOSITE 101, 202 AND ADVANCE VISUAL GUIDE at a special price.

Did you know that the Composite visual guide is offer at a special price? Go to WWW.FIBERGLASSTECHNIQUE.COM to find out what is that special price. Also for a limited time people who buy the guide will be entitle to receive a free update of the guide.