Epoxies

Product Guide

For more information, see the Product Selection Guide.

Suggestions for form epoxies include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Epoxies are usually described in terms of their viscosity, from low to high, to measure flowability. Viscosity is generally expressed in units called Centipoise (CPS).
• Epoxies are also rated as high modulus or low modulus. The Modulus of Elasticity is measured in psi or MPa and indicates how rigid or stiff a material is after final cure. For anchoring dowels or rebar into concrete and bonding or structural crack repair, a high modulus epoxy should be used.
• Epoxies must be proportioned and mixed at the correct ratios. If the ratio is incorrect, then the performance of the cured epoxy may drop substantially and/or the epoxy will not cure and set up. Improper ratios and mixing can cause streaks, soft spots, blistering, bubbling, stickiness or other problems.
• Thoroughly mix parts A and B of the epoxy separately. Blend components until streaks have disappeared and the color is uniform. Always scrape the bottom and sides when mixing and emptying containers.
• Always use clean, dry aggregate when mixing with epoxy. Wet or damp sand can create excessive bubbles in the epoxy.
• Epoxy resin (Part A) may crystallize if stored past it's shelf life or if exposed to cold or freezing temperatures during storage. If this happens, either discard the material or warm to 130°F (54°C) for 8 hours.
• Epoxies are very temperature dependent. The substrate temperature and material temperature are critical. The surrounding air temperature is not as important, except as it affects the temperature of the epoxy and the substrate. High temperatures will accelerate the setting time and cool temperatures will slow down the setting time. As a general rule, the pot life of the epoxy will be reduced by half for each 10 to 15 degree increase in temperature above 75°F and double for each 10 to 15 degree drop below 75°F.
• ASTM-C-881 Standard for Epoxy Adhesives:
  

  Type refers to the exposure
  Type	Description
  I	Non-load bearing, bonding hardened to hardened concrete
  II	Non-load bearing, bonding fresh to hardened concrete
  III	Bonding skid resistant materials to traffic bearing surfaces
  IV	Load bearing, bonding hardened to hardened concrete
  V	Load bearing, bonding fresh to hardened concrete

  
  

  Grade refers to the viscosity flowability of the mixed epoxy
  Grade	Description
  1	Low viscosity (water - motor oil)
  2	Medium viscosity (syrup - honey)
  3	Gel, non-sag (peanut butter - caulk)

  
  

  Class refers to the temperature limits at time of placement, both ambient and surface
  Class	Description
  A	Application temperature <40°F
  B	Application temperature 40-60°F
  C	Application temperature >60°F