RCU Forums - View Single Post - Epoxy cure problem
View Single Post
Old 11-21-2007 | 01:15 AM
  #25  
aussiesteve's Avatar
aussiesteve
Senior Member
 
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,924
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
From: PerthWA, AUSTRALIA
Default RE: Epoxy cure problem

My comments below refer to GP epoxies such as those that we use in this hobby
Epoxy cures by cross linking of carboxyl groups - not by catalytic reaction. That is why it is important to use exactly the correct mix. Way back when i dealt with them on a daily basis, I used to say to customers that thought that if they wanted them to cure fast by adding more hardener, "Why not use just hardener then?"

The next point is that the chemical reaction wil generally ceas below around 15 deg C and be inconsistent (due to the speed of the reaction) above around 35 Deg C. (Ambient Temperature).

Many of my old clients that had complaints would complain that they mixed the product and it hadn't cured overnight - Usually on a cold night and with the product outside in the garage or garden shed.

Waxed containers can be an issue if you are only mixing a small quantity - the wax from the container can enter the mix and act as a release agent between molecules thus stopping the cure from taking effect.

The best way to measure small quantites is to use either a set of small scales or use 2 teaspoons (one for each component). make sure that the entire amount is taken from the spoon to the mixing board.

So - in future - Measure it accurately, mix it thoroughly, make sure the temperature is within the correct range (Ambient as well as the temperature of the item being glued), do not use waxed cups and do not contaminate it with anything. you will have success each and every time that way.